The Philadelphia 76ers suffered a heartbreaking 105-103 loss to the Brooklyn Nets on Saturday night. The game was decided in the final moments when Nic Claxton outworked Paul George for an offensive rebound off a missed three-pointer by Keon Johnson and tipped in the game-winning shot.
George’s lack of effort in securing the rebound proved costly, as he neither jumped nor raised his arms, allowing Claxton to capitalize. With the loss, the Sixers dropped to a 20-26 record, ranking among the worst in the Eastern Conference. Fans were left wondering whether Joel Embiid’s presence could have made a difference in the game’s crucial final seconds.
Embiid’s Bench Role Raises Concerns Amid Ongoing Knee Issues and Uncertain Future
Surprisingly, Embiid was on the bench for the entire fourth quarter, a decision made by head coach Nick Nurse. Nurse defended his choice, stating that Guerschon Yabusele was more effective at center in this particular game. Embiid, who started and played 31 minutes, contributed 14 points, seven rebounds, and five assists, but his absence down the stretch raised questions.
Yabusele, in contrast, secured eight rebounds in 23 minutes. The decision to keep Embiid out in a winnable game fueled speculation about his ongoing knee issues and whether he should sit out the rest of the season.
Joel Embiid (NBA)Embiid has openly admitted that his injured left knee is affecting his performance. Earlier in the week, he acknowledged that he was not playing at his usual level and hinted that surgery might be necessary. “The way I was playing a year ago is not the way I’m playing right now. It sucks,” he said. On Sunday, reports surfaced that the Sixers and Embiid were seeking alternative treatments for his knee, as his current rehab efforts have not led to improvement. The uncertainty surrounding his injury leaves open the question of whether he will continue playing this season.
Sixers Face Tough Decision: Playoff Push or Prioritize Embiid’s Long-Term Health?
With the Sixers struggling to secure a playoff spot, many are calling for Embiid to sit out the remainder of the season. Though the team is still mathematically in the play-in race, their chances of a postseason run appear slim. If the Sixers fail to make the playoffs, they could benefit from a higher draft pick in the 2025 NBA Draft.
Meanwhile, Embiid’s diminished effectiveness on the court has become evident—his shooting struggles, lack of defensive presence, and reluctance to drive to the basket suggest he is far from his peak form.
Embiid’s statistics this season further highlight his struggles. In just 19 games, he is averaging 23.8 points, 8.2 rebounds, and 0.9 blocks—well below his MVP-level numbers from past seasons. Compared to his 34.7 points and 11 rebounds per game last year, it’s clear that his knee issues are limiting him significantly.
Paul George, when asked about Embiid’s condition, jokingly said, “Drugs help,” but the Sixers will need a more sustainable long-term solution. With time running out on the season, the organization faces a tough decision on whether to push for a late playoff run or prioritize Embiid’s health for the future.
