Philadelphia 76ers All-Star big man Joel Embiid has faced significant scrutiny for his underwhelming performance with Team USA at the ongoing 2024 Paris Olympics. Sports analyst Chris Broussard predicts this scrutiny will continue well into the next NBA season. Despite being the 2023 league MVP, Embiid has been practically invisible for the US squad during its Olympic campaign, raising concerns about his form and future impact.
The 30-year-old Embiid’s Olympic performance has been far from impressive. In the opener against Serbia on July 28, he scored only four points on 2-of-5 shooting and grabbed two rebounds in 12 minutes as a starter. His performance was so lackluster that he didn’t even play in the subsequent game against South Sudan on August 1, a decision made by the coaching staff.
Chris Broussard, a prominent sports analyst, took to X (formerly Twitter) to voice his concerns. On the latest episode of “First Things First,” Broussard emphasized that Embiid’s subpar performance in the Olympics would likely lead to increased scrutiny during the upcoming NBA season.
“Joel Embiid has not impressed in these Olympics, and the scrutiny on him is about to be turned up this upcoming season!” Broussard captioned his post.
Joel Embiid has not impressed in these Olympics, and the scrutiny on him is about to be turned up this upcoming season! https://t.co/agjeDQjSgK
— Chris Broussard (@Chris_Broussard) August 2, 2024
Following his Olympic duties, Joel Embiid will return to a revamped Sixers squad. The team has been bolstered by the arrival of All-Star wing Paul George and new quality role players like Caleb Martin, Andre Drummond, Eric Gordon, and Reggie Jackson. Additionally, rising star Tyrese Maxey, who just signed a new five-year contract, is expected to play a crucial role.
Last season, the Sixers finished with a respectable 47-35 record but were eliminated in the opening round by the New York Knicks in six games. With the new roster additions, expectations are high, and Embiid’s ability to integrate and lead will be under the microscope.
Joel Embiid’s benching against South Sudan sparked controversy and speculation. Despite being fit to play, Embiid was the lone player who didn’t see action in the 103-86 victory. Coach Steve Kerr explained the decision, stating it was a strategic move to better match up with their African opponents.
“That’s how we’re going to do this. Whatever we need to do to win each game, that’s what we’re going to do,” Kerr explained, as per CBS News.
This decision has led to questions about Embiid’s role and effectiveness. In the game against Serbia, which the US won 110-84, Embiid logged 12 minutes as a starter but only managed to contribute minimally. In contrast, players like Boston’s Jayson Tatum and Indiana’s Tyrese Haliburton were not fielded, suggesting that Kerr is willing to bench key players if it benefits the team’s strategy.
Embiid’s struggles in the Olympics could be a harbinger of issues for the Sixers in the upcoming NBA season. While his offensive skills are undeniable, his lack of impact on the international stage raises concerns about his consistency and mental readiness. Broussard’s comments highlight a growing sentiment that Joel Embiid must prove himself anew, especially with the Sixers’ new lineup and high expectations.
The Sixers’ success hinges on Embiid’s ability to lead and integrate with the new additions. His performance, or lack thereof, during the Olympics might affect team dynamics and his confidence going into the season. The benching against South Sudan, justified or not, adds to the narrative that Embiid might not be in the best form, either physically or strategically.
Joel Embiid’s underwhelming Olympic performance has put him under the spotlight for all the wrong reasons. As he returns to a retooled Sixers team, the pressure will be on to demonstrate that he can still dominate and lead effectively. With analysts like Chris Broussard predicting increased scrutiny, Embiid’s upcoming NBA season will be crucial in defining his legacy and future with the Philadelphia 76ers.
Comments