Joel Embiid Opens Up On How Playing Short Bursts Is Effecting His Level Of Play

After missing most of the 2024–25 campaign, there were growing fears in Philadelphia that star big man Joel Embiid's future in the NBA may be very short-lived. However, he's come back early this season and looked very solid, averaging 12 points, four rebounds, and three assists through two games, with the young duo of Maxey and Edgecombe leading the way thus far.

While Embiid is still dealing with the injuries that have kept him out for a long time in his career, this isn't the production we're used to seeing from the former MVP early in the season. Now, he's opened up on exactly why that is, stating that playing in short stints doesn't allow him to get involved in the game as much, with the former MVP playing just 20 minutes a night through two games.

"The longer I sit, the shorter stints...you play 2-3 minutes and you gotta get out...that's really nothing. I might as well just stay home and be with my family. Longer stints, you're actually able to let the game come to you, but then again, longer stints also means you might be done by halftime. I trust them until I'm over it, I'm gonna keep trying. I make my case every day."

While it appears Embiid was ready to call out the team, he clearly understands why the Sixers are doing this as he recovers from injury, and when he's close to 100% once more, he may get back to regular minutes, but for now, he's battling through for his team.