Joel Embiid and the Philadelphia 76ers didn’t have the best 2024-25 NBA season. Because of injuries to Embiid, Paul George and Tyrese Maxey, the Sixers struggled to be competitive and finished 13th in the Eastern Conference with a 24-58 record.
The 2023 MVP has had trouble with his left knee, which limited him to 19 games this season. The big man averaged 23.8 points, 8.2 rebounds and 4.5 assists. Before the campaign’s official end, the team ruled Embiid out for the rest of the year to address his knee issues.
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Many are uncertain about Embiid’s future with the organization because of his health. NBA insider Bill Simmons talked about the big man’s future on the recent episode of his podcast, “The Bill Simmons Show.”
Philadelphia 76ers center Joel Embiid controls the ball against the Los Angeles Lakers during the first half at Crypto.com Arena.Gary A. Vasquez-Imagn Images
Simmons proposed that the Sixers should make a deal with the Los Angeles Lakers to remove Embiid from their responsibilities. He said a trade package that doesn’t involve Austin Reaves and players with expiring contracts could make it work.
This way, Los Angeles can match Embiid’s $59.5 million next season. In this scenario, the Purple & Gold team could package Dorian Finney-Smith, Rui Hachimura, Gabe Vincent and Maxi Kleber.
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“Here’s ALL of our expirings and a [first-round pick] and we’ll get you out of the Joel Embiid business. Here’s your get out of jail free card, you don’t have to deal with him anymore,” Simmons said.
While Embiid has often been sidelined this season due to injuries, trading him and not getting a star player isn’t wise. The seven-time All-Star has proven he can still be an effective force when healthy. The only thing keeping him away from the court is his inconsistent health.
Related: Joel Embiid’s Future With 76ers Could Be In Jeopardy