The Philadelphia 76ers are finally set to tip off their regular season later tonight, taking on the new-look Milwaukee Bucks on TNT. Internally, Joel Embiid and the 76ers have NBA Finals aspirations, but few expect them to actually achieve those goals, especially as James Harden’s cloudy future lingers.
No one really knows what to make of Harden’s latest antics, which include showing up to the team’s facility after ten days away from the organization before being told to just stay home during the upcoming two-game road trip. Harden was all prepared to board the team plane before being held back by team security, who indicated he was not allowed to accompany his teammates.
So, where does this leave Embiid? Like the 76ers, the reigning NBA MVP wants to win a championship. Yet without Harden in the lineup or a similarly talented player to replace his production, the 76ers’ championship hopes go up in smoke.
Perhaps that’s why Chris Haynes says, “Rival teams are keeping a close eye on how much more Embiid is willing to endure” in Philadelphia.
While he’s only now celebrating his first MVP Trophy, Embiid has long been regarded as one of, if not the best player in the association. His desire to win an NBA Championship has been well-documented, even suggesting he’d be willing to leave Philadelphia to do so.
Naturally, if Embiid did ever hit the trade block, there would be several teams lining up to trade for the six-time All-Star. He’d bring back a massive trade haul that bests what the Damian Lillard, Kevin Durant, and Rudy Gobert blockbusters delivered, but first, the 76ers would have to be ready to listen.
Embiid may be under contract through 2025-26, but it’s possible we see the All-NBA center depart before he’s given a chance to leave via his player option for the 2026-27 league year. Yet, much of his future could depend on how strong of a roster the 76ers can build around their superstar cornerstone.
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