Joel Embiid is not happy with how the Philadelphia 76ers have handled this offseason, an NBA scout told NBA Analysis Network.
James Harden has requested a trade from the Sixers and Georges Niang and Shake Milton left in free agency. Philadelphia signed Patrick Beverley and Mo Bamba and re-signed Paul Reed and Montrezl Harrell.
“Embiid is not happy with how the Sixers have handled this offseason,” the scout said. “Between Harden’s trade request, Georges Niang leaving, and there being no real upgrades on the roster, Embiid is growing impatient. I’ve heard he’s going to give it one more year in Philadelphia, but he doesn’t want to play knowing he has no chance to contend. He’s someone I’d watch.”
Embiid signed a four-year, $210 million maximum contract extension with the Sixers in August 2021. Philadelphia has never gotten past the second round of the playoffs in the Embiid era. Nick Nurse is the new head coach for the Sixers. He replaced Doc Rivers.
NBA NEWS & TRADE RUMORS: Joel Embiid & Philadelphia 76ers Updates
The New York Knicks have loomed as the leading suitor for Embiid if he requests a trade, according to Jake Fischer of Yahoo Sports. Since Knicks president Leon Rose used to be Embiid’s agent, some people believe New York would have an advantage in the Embiid trade sweepstakes if the Kansas product hit the trade block.
It will be fascinating to see where the Sixers trade Harden — who wants to play for the Los Angeles Clippers — and what type of package they get in return. The franchise must surround Embiid, who won the 2023 MVP Award, with the right pieces. Embiid averaged 33.1 points and 10.2 rebounds last season while shooting 54.8% from the field, 33.0% from beyond the arc and 85.7% from the free-throw line.
NBA NEWS & TRADE RUMORS: Joel Embiid & Philadelphia 76ers Updates
In 394 regular-season games with the Sixers, Embiid is averaging 27.2 points and 11.2 rebounds. He has made six All-Star teams, five All-NBA teams and three All-Defensive teams.
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