The Philadelphia 76ers initiated their campaign with a 117-116 triumph over the Boston Celtics, a contest notably absent of Paul George and Jared McCain. Tyrese Maxey shone, accumulating 40 points. Newcomer VJ Edgecombe contributed a striking 34, marking the most significant scoring achievement in an NBA premiere since Wilt Chamberlain’s performance in 1959.
This information paints a favorable picture.
76ers’ VJ Edgecombe eclipses milestones set by LeBron James, Allen Iverson in remarkable NBA debut against Celtics
Cameron Salerno
A less optimistic assessment, particularly for followers of the Sixers or those within the organization, centers on Joel Embiid’s seemingly diminished condition. His contribution amounted to four points, achieved with a 1-of-9 shooting record. He recorded a game-low minus-16 over 20 troublesome minutes. More concerning than his limited offensive impact was the palpable deficiency in his physical capabilities, rendering even rudimentary movements or any aerial maneuvers on the defensive end exceedingly difficult.
The notion that his leg strength was lacking barely scratches the surface of reality. He could not manage to jump over a small obstacle. After Xavier Tillman thwarted Embiid’s unhurried attempt in the final moments, he progressed to traverse the court for a subsequent layup, while Embiid trailed behind, appearing helpless.
Concurrently, Sixers’ mentor Nick Nurse endeavored to preemptively shape the narrative by portraying an undeniably favorable depiction of Embiid’s display.
“I am exceptionally pleased with his presence on the court,” Nurse stated. “I anticipate this may initially sound unconventional, considering his 1 for 9 [shooting] statistic. However, I believe he facilitated effective ball distribution. He exhibited astute decision-making. I thought his shot selection was prudent. Moreover, he provided rim protection. Consequently, it is apparent that he has not engaged in extensive activity, correct? His involvement has been confined to a scrimmage and a preseason game, indicative of rust. Nevertheless, I perceived fluidity in his movements and sound judgment, which is undeniably promising.”
It’s worth noting that Embiid previously earned the title of league MVP and scoring champion three years prior. If the benchmark for assessing “good” play from an athlete of his caliber involves merely “transferring” the ball and executing sound decisions, then one is operating under a delusion. The issue of rust is undeniably a factor. He likely spent a significant portion of the preceding eight months abstaining from basketball. However, this inactivity constitutes a problem in itself.
Embiid managed to participate in a mere 19 contests the previous season and 39 the year before that. He has undergone four surgical procedures on his left meniscus, a portion of which was excised in February of 2024, the most recent procedure occurring this past April. He has also endured three foot surgeries. He is a physically imposing individual, measuring 7 feet in height and weighing nearly 300 pounds. The question is not whether the knees and feet of a man of his stature, who has undergone numerous surgeries, will eventually succumb. The pertinent question is when.
One can only hope that the aforementioned time has not yet arrived for Embiid, but if it has not, the signs strongly suggest its imminent arrival.
