The Philadelphia 76ers suffered yet another crushing defeat on their home turf, this time falling 111-99 to the Knicks, further plunging their already dismal 2-8 season. Fans jeered as the Sixers wilted, and even the return of Joel Embiid who’s been out rehabbing his knee and serving a suspension, couldn’t pull the team out of its downward spiral. Embiid, who was far from his best and managed only 13 points, is rumored to still be dealing with the fallout of prior game-related physical injuries and off-court controversies.
The franchise has been rife with challenges from the start. The incessant injuries and overall lack of cohesion have only added to the complex issues the team is battling. Much hope has been pinned on Embiid, who made a much-awaited comeback, although after a disappointing performance, the unease continues to loom. To top it off, the invincible Cleveland Cavaliers play next, fueling fears that things could still get worse for the Sixers.
Embiid’s physical condition has always raised concerns, especially with his history of late-season or playoff injuries. Following a rest period due to injuries, his Olympic showing succeeded in boosting confidence, however, that did not translate into the season start. He played a rusty game against New York, missing his initial five shots and only managing a field goal nine minutes into the third. While he sunk free throws routinely, his overall performance betrayed signs of exhaustion.
Despite the backslide, some positives still peek through for the Sixers. Paul George, the latest high-profile addition to the team, has begun showing signs of the promised prowess, scoring a game-high 29 points in the last match even though he’s just back after recovering from a preseason injury. However, the absence of Tyrese Maxey, who’s been out with a hamstring, doesn’t allow for a complete evaluation of the team’s capabilities.
The acquisition of Guerschon Yabusele, a standout in the French national team at the Olympics, adds another dynamic to the team. His promising start, however, now needs to accommodate the presence of Embiid, changing the rhythm, shots, and guard patterns. Though appreciated by Sixers coach, Nick Nurse, Yabusele managed only one shot in seven attempts in the last game. Along with other solid role players, if health permits, the Sixers have tremendous offensive potential. Given their dismal start hasn’t yet torpedoed their playoff chances, there’s hope they will bounce back once all players are fit.
Embiid, being the focal point, bears the pressure of the Sixers’ hopes, something Paul George sympathizes with from his stints as the franchise player for Indiana Pacers and Oklahoma City Thunder. George suggests that Embiid’s rhythm will return once the team learns to “play off of him and play around him”, adding that he’s seen enough in practice to remain optimistic. With the season start’s pressing urgency and Embiid’s prime years ticking away, he reaffirmed the team’s competitiveness, adding that if the team maintains its health, they have a good shot at the playoffs.
