Despite the big-name arrivals of LeBron James and Jaylen Brown, it’s a familiar face that could lead the Philadelphia 76ers to an NBA Championship this season.
Sixers fans were asked on TalkingPoints, a dedicated sports community app, who they think could be the Sixers’ surprise of the season. Speaking on the app, one user made an interesting point ahead of the new season.
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They said: “Does Embiid count? With LeBron, Maxey, Edgecombe and Brown all ready to take on a bigger role, we could finally see him healthy again.” Calling a former MVP a surprise package sounds unusual, but Philadelphia‘s new roster could unlock a different Joel Embiid.
Embiid still produced when available last season, averaging 26.9 points and 7.7 rebounds across 38 games, according to Basketball Reference. His 33.3 per cent usage rate also showed how heavily Philadelphia continued to depend on him.
The Sixers now have significantly more creation around their center. Tyrese Maxey averaged 28.3 points and 6.6 assists, while VJ Edgecombe contributed 16.0 points and 4.2 assists during an impressive rookie season.
LeBron supports Embiid, he’s an elite decision-maker capable of controlling possessions himself. James averaged 20.9 points and 7.2 assists last season, and his passing should create easier opportunities for Philadelphia’s center.
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James can deliver entry passes, operate pick-and-rolls, and attack before defences become organised. That should give Embiid more without requiring him to create from scratch.
Availability remains the biggest issue after Embiid managed only 38 regular-season appearances. Encouragingly, his offseason has given him an opportunity to focus on his recovery and conditioning.
Maxey, LeBron, Edgecombe and Jaylen Brown can all take the lead on offense. Nick Nurse, therefore, has enough creation to rest Embiid when required and reduce the reliance on him.
More options could preserve Embiid’s energy for rebounding, rim protection and the possessions Philadelphia really need him to dominate.
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The Sixers can accept lower individual volume if it produces greater efficiency and availability. LeBron’s arrival gives them another player capable of running the offence while putting Embiid into favourable scoring positions.
Philadelphia already knows how dominant Embiid can be, but this roster gives him a chance to influence games without carrying such an enormous burden.
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