Joel Embiid and Tyrese Maxey (Image Credit: Getty Images)
The Philadelphia 76ers’ season has started sourly, with the team sitting at the bottom of the Eastern Conference at 2-11 after 13 games. Injury to key players, including stars Joel Embiid, Tyrese Maxey, and Paul George, have played a significant role in the dismal record. Embiid has only appeared in three games this season, while Maxey missed the last six due to a hamstring injury.
However, the team’s woes extend beyond injuries. According to The Athletic, tensions have surfaced among the 76ers’ stars, particularly between Embiid and Maxey. Maxey, who shares a close friendship with Embiid, criticized Embiid for his tardiness to team functions and shared the importance of leadership and accountability.
Joel Embiid and Tyrese Maxey (Image Credit: Getty Images)
“Maxey highlighted the need for Embiid to set a better example as a leader daily while emphasizing the importance of timeliness,” the report read.
While Embiid listened to Maxey’s concerns, he also expressed frustration over his role on the court and the lack of clarity surrounding his usage. The combination of injuries, poor performance, and internal discord has created a rocky start for a team with championship aspirations.
“League and team sources said Embiid heard the message while also expressing a lack of clarity and occasional frustration about how he is being used on the court.”
Joel Embiid Heaps High Praise On Jimmy Butler
The 76ers most recently saw a 106-89 loss to the Miami Heat. Following the loss, Joel Embiid shared high praise for Jimmy Butler. Embiid mentioned Butler as one of the top five NBA players.
“It’s called basketball, commanding while being on the floor. Both sides of the floor, one of the best players in the league. Probably the top five, probably the best, actually, best player in the league. So you gotta, it’s hard to guard; it takes a whole team,” Embiid said.
Embiid is averaging 14.7 points, 6.3 rebounds, and four assists per game this season. Meanwhile, the Heat star is averaging 17.7 points, 5.3 rebounds, and 4.9 assists per game this season.
