Joel Embiid to the Knicks? 76ers insider claims it could ‘absolutely happen’
Joel Embiid might be on his way out of the Philadelphia 76ers according to inside sources.
Joel Embiid (Credits: Bleacher Report)
In recent weeks, Joel Embiid has become the center of attention as trade rumors circulate around him. With James Harden expressing his desire to leave the Philadelphia 76ers, there are concerns that losing Embiid could weaken the team significantly. In response, the 76ers are making efforts to retain their star players in the lineup. However, with Joel recently making comments about the possibility of winning championships either with the 76ers or elsewhere, speculations about potential trade destinations have started to emerge.
While James Harden’s potential move to the Los Angeles Clippers has been a longstanding topic of conversation, attention has shifted toward the big man, Embiid. In a recent SiriusXM NBA Radio session with Evan Cohen and Sam Mitchell, Keith Pompey, a prominent insider for the Philadelphia 76ers, suggested that a trade sending Joel Embiid to the New York Knicks could “absolutely [be] happening.”
“Joel already owns a house up in New York, he’s had it for a while. The worst-kept secret is that the Knicks have been compiling and keeping ahold of their first-round draft picks hoping, and praying that Joel Embiid asks out…I can see that absolutely happening” While the rumors and these comments might point to something cooking up, according to The Athletic’s Sam Amick, the possibility of it actually happening is still extremely low.
Why do Joel Embiid and James Harden want to leave the 76ers?
In a recent address, Joel Embiid expressed his burning desire to win an NBA championship, stating, “I just want to win a championship…Whatever it takes. I don’t know where that’s gonna be. Whether it’s in Philly or anywhere else. I just want to have a chance.” This statement has sparked speculation about his future with the team, with some questioning if it’s a ploy to push the 76ers to strengthen their squad. However, it could also be a genuine expression of his aspirations, given his competitive spirit
James Harden’s relationship with both Joel Embiid and Daryl Morey has grown increasingly strained, evident by his absence from Joel’s wedding ceremony. The discontent seems to stem from his voiced frustration over the 76ers’ handling of free agency and organizational decisions.
Notably, last year, Harden had willingly taken a pay cut, hoping it would facilitate team improvements and bring them closer to championship contention, with the expectation of a better payout in the subsequent offseason. However, those expectations were not met, further fueling his dissatisfaction
The potential trades of James Harden or Joel Embiid could hold immense significance for the 76ers and the teams seeking to acquire their talents. With both players being superstars, any potential deals are expected to be game-changing for all parties involved. The anticipation revolves around witnessing the offers that come forth, as the right trade could elevate the 76ers to championship contention.
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Ritvik Malhotra
(1085 Articles Published)