Despite facing an injury-plagued season, Philadelphia 76ers star Joel Embiid continues to be seen as a franchise cornerstone by the team’s ownership. In an interview with David Aldridge of The Athletic, 76ers majority owner Josh Harris expressed unwavering support for the former MVP, emphasizing his resilience and leadership qualities.
“We’re still really happy with Joel,” Harris said this week. “He’s a warrior. I’ve seen this. He’s fought through a lot of injuries. You remember when we started, in his first two years, he didn’t play at all. And then, in his third year, he played 30-something games. And then, he fought through all of that, and became the MVP.”
Embiid, who has played in just 13 games this season, has once again been sidelined due to injuries, leaving the 76ers struggling in his absence. Despite this, Harris remains confident that the All-Star center’s work ethic and determination will help him overcome these challenges.
“Right now, he’s fighting, and we’re fighting,” Harris continued. “I’m hopeful and optimistic that we’ll get through.” Harris believes that if Embiid can return to full health, the team’s fortunes will turn around. “If he gets back on the court, everything’s going to fall into place,” he said. “I know him as a person, and I know him as an individual, and I know how hard he’s working.”
The 76ers have certainly faced their fair share of struggles this season. With a disappointing 17-27 record, they currently sit 11th in the Eastern Conference. However, Harris is hopeful that the return of Embiid, paired with the efforts of the team’s surrounding talent, will reignite their playoff aspirations.
Embiid has been averaging 24.4 points, 7.9 rebounds, and 3.8 assists in 29.5 minutes per game when healthy. His absence has been significant, but Harris is optimistic that the All-NBA big man will make his way back to full strength. “He’s super-smart and very in-tune with his body,” Harris noted. “He has a whole team around him, and we have a whole team around him. He’s getting the absolute best care and best advice.”
Though the 76ers’ season has fallen short of expectations, Harris reiterated that the team’s long-term goals remain intact. “We started this season with two potential Hall of Famers, and one All-Star,” Harris explained. “We were very excited about the season. Obviously, it’s been a disappointing season. No one’s happy with where we are. We’re not happy.”
