The Philadelphia 76ers’ new-look Big Four appears determined to hit the ground running. As excitement continues to build around one of the NBA’s most intriguing rosters, trainer Chris Johnson recently shared a new workout video featuring Tyrese Maxey, LeBron James and Jaylen Brown putting in work together during the offseason.
The footage showcased the trio running through various offensive actions, sharpening their timing and continuing to build chemistry ahead of what many expect to be a championship-or-bust season in Philadelphia.
LeBron’s intense workout with 76ers teammates has fans wondering where Embiid is
The video offered another encouraging glimpse of a partnership that has become one of the league’s biggest storylines. James, who joined Philadelphia earlier this offseason, has wasted little time integrating himself into the team. The future Hall of Famer has already been seen working out alongside Maxey and Brown multiple times during the summer, signaling a commitment to building on-court chemistry well before training camp begins.
Brown, another major addition, has likewise embraced the opportunity to work with his new teammates. Together with Maxey, the trio represents a potent combination of scoring, playmaking and perimeter defense that could make Philadelphia one of the Eastern Conference’s most dangerous teams.
The workouts have generated plenty of optimism
Maxey remains one of the league’s fastest-rising stars and is coming off another strong season as the face of the franchise’s backcourt. Brown brings championship experience and two-way versatility, while James continues to defy age with his production and basketball IQ.
The sight of all three players training together sends a clear message: Philadelphia’s newest stars are already investing in the process. But as encouraging as the videos have been, they have also sparked a different conversation among fans. Where is Joel Embiid?
The former MVP has not appeared in the recent workout sessions shared publicly, leading some fans to wonder about his offseason preparation and health status. While there has been no indication of a new injury, Embiid’s absence from the highly publicized runs has naturally drawn attention because of his history.
Philadelphia’s ceiling remains tied to Embiid’s ability to stay on the floor
Throughout his career, injuries have repeatedly interrupted his availability, forcing him to miss significant stretches of games and limiting Philadelphia’s postseason aspirations. As a result, every offseason involving Embiid tends to be viewed through a different lens.
Fans understand that the 76ers’ championship hopes ultimately depend on the health of their franchise center. No matter how talented the supporting cast may be, Philadelphia’s ceiling remains tied to Embiid’s ability to stay on the floor. That reality makes his absence from the workout videos difficult to ignore.
Of course, there are plenty of possible explanations. Embiid may be following an individualized training plan, focusing on recovery work, strength training or conditioning away from the cameras. Veteran stars often customize their offseason routines based on medical recommendations and long-term health goals.
Still, the contrast is notable. While James, Brown and Maxey continue to build chemistry in front of fans and social media audiences, Embiid has largely remained out of sight. The timing is particularly interesting because the Sixers enter the season with arguably the most talented roster of Embiid’s career.