The Philadelphia 76ers will go as far as Joel Embiid takes them. Everything this franchise is doing at the moment depends on him.
That’s why it’s so important for him to lead the way when the Sixers need it, and why they will continue to lean on him throughout their title chase. Success will depend on how Embiid handles every challenge in his way.
Tuesday’s win over the Los Angeles Clippers was another example. He had 20 points in the first half as Philadelphia led by 11 at halftime. He finished with 41 points to set the tone the rest of the team followed.
“Just trying to start off strong because what I’ve come to find out is that my energy kind of drives the whole team,” Embiid told reporters. “I know if I have a good start or if I’m being aggressive offensively and defensively, my teammates are going to pick up no matter if I make shots or not so just trying to be aggressive. Not just for me, but for my whole team.”
After another monster performance, Embiid is averaging a robust 33.6 points, 9.8 rebounds and 4.2 assists. He’s also shooting 53.6% from the floor and 35.2% from deep. He is averaging 1.7 blocks per game. There isn’t much the big fella can’t do. He’s been terrific in the 2022-23 season.
However, Embiid and the Sixers have a ways to go. They are experimenting with a new lineup that has Tyrese Maxey coming off the bench. While Embiid’s partnership with James Harden is dominant already, it still has room to grow.
“We still have a long way to go but I like how we’re closing games,” Embiid added. “For these guys, guys coming off the bench, Tyrese, he took over to start the fourth, by the time we had to come in we just had to finish the job. That’s what I’m talking about. Don’t stop the steps. We have to take to make sure when we get in those situations, we know what we have to do offensively and defensively, and just go out and close it out.”
Embiid and the Sixers continue the road trip in Portland against the Trail Blazers on Thursday.
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