Sixers’ destiny hinges on Joel Embiid’s physique
Philadelphia’s outlook for 2025–26 relies upon closely on Embiid’s well being. If he can keep comparatively wholesome, the Sixers have an actual shot at competing. When wholesome, he stays one of the vital dominant two-way large males within the league: distinctive in publish scoring, rim safety and defensive management.
Nevertheless, the margin for error is slim. A repeat of the previous two seasons’ frequent accidents, restricted bursts and lowered explosiveness might flip Embiid into the sort of high-potential, high-risk large man who by no means reaches his peak as a result of his physique lets him down. Consider the various large males earlier than him whose careers have been lower quick by persistent accidents.
If Embiid must observe a fastidiously managed schedule, keep away from back-to-backs or endure recurring upkeep, the Sixers’ ceiling drops considerably. Philadelphia would grow to be a group that’s “below-elite however harmful” relatively than a real contender. And if he suffers a critical setback, it might push Embiid into the realm of “what ifs” — a dominant participant with a giant profession stuffed with “if solely” moments.
What if Joel Embiid cannot keep wholesome?
Let’s take into account a extra grim state of affairs. Embiid fits up however performs solely intermittently, maybe 50–60 video games, because of recurring knee flare-ups. This portrays him as yet one more high-risk middle whose profession is lower quick by damage. The story shifts from “return to MVP type” to “cannot keep on the ground.”
In that case, Philadelphia would most likely alter by relying extra on guard Tyrese Maxey, growing a youthful large man and designing the roster round depth and minutes administration. Embiid would grow to be a big part-time participant relatively than the primary focus. The broader dialogue would flip to defending his worth and stopping catastrophic decline.
Such an final result wouldn’t solely influence the Sixers’ season however might additionally affect Embiid’s legacy: Will he be remembered as a star who shined brightly however pale early? Or is that this newest rehab the one which lastly succeeds?
The report is a hopeful signal, nevertheless it’s solely a primary step. Embiid’s return to motion is a mandatory however inadequate situation for Philadelphia’s aspirations. The Sixers’ total 2025–26 destiny depends upon whether or not Embiid can regain sturdiness. If he does, they’ve an opportunity to compete. If he doesn’t, and we’ve seen this sample earlier than, he dangers changing into one other nice large man undone by put on and tear.
