Can LeBron James Fix Joel Embiid’s Poor Work Ethic? Analyst Questions 76ers Center’s Effort

LeBron James and Joel Embiid are set to join forces for the Philadelphia 76ers next season.

Can LeBron James Fix Joel Embiid’s Poor Work Ethic? Analyst Questions 76ers Center’s Effort

Joel Embiid and LeBron James (Image credits - Yahoo Sports)

LeBron James is entering a new phase in his career. He may be heading into his 24th season in the NBA but his hunt for a fifth championship is very much on after his move to the Philadelphia 76ers in the summer.

However, his chances of lifting a fifth title will be dependent on Joel Embiid and his health. Drafted by the 76ers as the number three pick in the 2014 NBA draft, Embiid has been the cornerstone of their project ever since.

However, injuries have been a major concern for him every season. The 76ers center has not reached the 40-game mark in the regular season in his last three seasons. Over the last two regular seasons, he has made just 57 appearances combined, which is fewer than the 41-year-old James played last season.

During a recent episode of the “Game Over” podcast, sports analyst Max Kellerman raised concerns he had previously heard about Embiid’s work ethic during the 2024 Paris Olympics. He asked James’ agent, Rich Paul, whether James might have to step in and push Embiid to improve. Paul dismissed Kellerman’s concerns and said:

No, I’ve heard nothing but great things about Joel this summer. I heard he’s been in the best shape, and he’s been healthy all summer. I’ve been around tons of USA Teams, but I don’t think that is the case.

Rich Paul on Game Over podcast

James and Embiid played together for Team USA during the 2024 Paris Olympics. Both of them played key roles in leading their country to a gold medal finish.

They will be playing as teammates for the first time in the NBA after James signed a two-year deal with the 76ers this year. However, Embiid’s health was a major concern for the four-time champion before signing with the team. But Embiid had a personal conversation and informed him that he was feeling healthy and injury-free in the summer for the first time in a long time.

RELATED
Tyrese Haliburton’s Reaction to Harrison Barnes’ Bank Purchase Is Priceless

The 76ers will have to load manage Joel Embiid next season

With Embiid, Tyrese Maxey, Jaylen Brown and LeBron James in the lineup, it is hard to argue against the 76ers having the most dominant team in the league as presently constructed. Since the acquisitions of Brown and James, the 76ers are seen as strong contenders to win it all next year.

Joel Embiid
Joel Embiid (Image credits – NBA)

Former NBA champion Matt Barnes suggested that the 76ers should load manage their center and play him in just 40 to 50 regular season games.

I still think it all depends on Embiid’s availability. I think hopefully they have a strategic plan that falls in line where they can get him to play 40 to 50 games in the regular season. If you can get Embiid to 40 to 55 games and have him in the playoffs and have everyone healthy in the playoffs, is there a better starting five in the NBA to you?

Matt Barnes on All The Smoke

The expectations surrounding the 76ers is higher than ever. They are looking to win their first championship since 1983. If health permits, the 76ers will be the biggest challengers to the defending champions, New York Knicks next season.

RELATED
Ayesha Curry Sums Up Stephen Curry’s Motivation Ahead of Season 18

LeBron James is 76ers’ leader and Joel Embiid is their best player

There is no doubt that adding a player like James will do the 76ers a world of good. He brings in some much needed leadership and playoff experience to a locker room that has not reached the Eastern Conference Finals in 25 years.

However at this stage of his career, James can take a backseat and play more as a facilitator. With Joel Embiid, Brown and Maxey in the lineup, James need not average 25 points every night.

Lonzo Ball, who played one season with James in the Lakers, believes that Embiid is the best player for the 76ers, while James will play the role of a leader.

Everybody is going to listen to LeBron. He is the leader of the team. The best player if all are healthy is Embiid.

Lonzo Ball on Ball In The Family podcast

Embiid has been the face of the 76ers for the last decade. He is the heart and soul of The Process. The former MVP will need to stay healthy if they have to have any chance of lifting the title next year. The excitement surrounding the team is sky-high.

Also Read: