USA Today via Reuters
Apr 20, 2023; Brooklyn, New York, USA; Philadelphia 76ers center Joel Embiid (21) walks off the court after defeating the against the Brooklyn Nets 102-97 in game three of the 2023 NBA playoffs at Barclays Center. Mandatory Credit: Wendell Cruz-USA TODAY Sports | Courtesy: Reuters
USA Today via Reuters
Apr 20, 2023; Brooklyn, New York, USA; Philadelphia 76ers center Joel Embiid (21) walks off the court after defeating the against the Brooklyn Nets 102-97 in game three of the 2023 NBA playoffs at Barclays Center. Mandatory Credit: Wendell Cruz-USA TODAY Sports | Courtesy: Reuters
Three players from the blockbuster James Harden trade to the Clippers have suited up for the Philadelphia 76ers. They completed the deal last Wednesday, and all four players traveled from the West Coast to Camden, New Jersey, for physicals and to attend the 76ers’ practice. On Thursday, Robert Covington and KJ Martin joined the Sixers in their game against the Toronto Raptors, while Marcus Morris watched from the sidelines.
Another player yet to debut for the 76ers cited “personal reasons” for his absence, is about to return. Ahead of his debut, Joel Embiid’s new teammate debunks false notions about his career in a recent interview.
Joel Embiid’s New Teammate Debunks False Narratives
ADVERTISEMENT
Article continues below this ad
Nicolas Batum has rejoined the Philadelphia 76ers after addressing a personal issue. The experienced forward was part of the trade that sent James Harden to the Los Angeles Clippers, but had to leave the team temporarily to attend to a family matter.
Batum scoffed at the idea that he was retiring when it was brought up as he spoke to media.
?I’m happy to be here. I’m not retiring or anything. I just had to take care of something. Sometimes, stuff is bigger than basketball.? https://t.co/UuOTgkwkwI
? Sam DiGiovanni (@BySamDiGiovanni) November 6, 2023
Batum took a brief absence from the team, lasting approximately four days, and he returned yesterday. During the Sixers’ morning practice session before their upcoming game against the Wizards, he and the other recent additions to the team, including Robert Covington, K.J. Martin, and Marcus Morris Sr., practiced various plays. Assistant coach Bobby Jackson provided guidance on screening and cutting movements as they engaged in light training.
Read More: ?Make a Lot of Money?: Joel Embiid Bids James Harden Adieu With a Hope of Finals Face-off
ADVERTISEMENT
Article continues below this ad
In a clip posted on Twitter by Sam DiGiovanni, the veteran forward debunked notions of his retirement. ?I’m happy to be here. I’m not retiring or anything,”?said Batum. He further added, “I just had to take care of something. Sometimes, stuff is bigger than basketball.??The Sixers are finally adjusting without Harden.
Joel Embiid and the Sixers without James Harden
The team morale suffered because of James Harden’s disruptive behavior in the dressing room. He chose to skip practice sessions and games, leading the Sixers’ management to trade him to his preferred destination, the Los Angeles Clippers. Despite the move, Harden has not yet played for the Clippers.
ADVERTISEMENT
Article continues below this ad
Joel Embiid, the reigning MVP, has the potential to lead the Sixers to their fourth NBA championship, given his current performance. However, achieving this goal relies on the team’s collective effort, with consistency being a key factor.
Watch This Story: ?5 Months After Running Doc Rivers Out of Philadelphia, James Harden Receives Honest Advice From the Legendary Coach
