Joel Embiid did what? Well, the Sixers have already been in a world of trouble to start this season with the former MVP’s absence due to injury management. And Joel recently expressed his frustration at the constant criticism he is facing for it, “I see people saying ‘he doesn’t want to play.’ I’ve done way too much for this city putting myself at risk for people to be saying that. I do think it’s b——-.” Unfortunately, his emotions got the better of him once again as Embiid committed a shocking act tonight that could lead to a serious penalty.

After the Sixers faced another defeat with a loss against the Grizzlies, the superstar Center allegedly assaulted a reporter in the locker room. As per The Philadelphia Inquirer’s Keith Pompey’s initial report, Embiid punched the media personnel. But a later report clarified that it was a “shove” and not a punch. If that’s true, then he could incur a lengthy suspension and maybe even some legal repercussions.

Sure enough, the shocking news left many fans wondering, “Was it Marcus Hayes?” Hayes is a sports columnist who Embiid recently called out. The reason? The columnist in his controversial report referenced the former MVP’s son and late brother. “Like that dude, he’s not here, Marcus, whatever his name is, I’ve done way too much for this f—— city to be treated like this. Done way too f—— much.” Embiid remarked.

The latest reports suggest that it was in fact Hayes who Embiid got into an altercation with. During the back and forth, the Sixers star said to the columnist, “Say what you want about me as a player, but don’t ever put my dead brother’s name in your mouth. Don’t talk about my family. Don’t bring them into this. Be a man, talk to me about ball.” The rising tensions led to the shove from Embiid.

NBA World claims Marcus Hayes ‘got what he deserved’ after Joel Embiid’s shocking act

While Joel Embiid’s actions might not have been professional, many fans believe that Marcus Hayes had it coming. Yes, he recently wrote in his column, “Joel Embiid consistently points to the birth of his son, Arthur, as the major inflection point in his career. He often says that he wants to be great to leave a legacy for the boy named after his little brother… In order to be great at your job, you first have to show up for work. Embiid has been great at just the opposite.” Obviously, Embiid did not like the reference because his brother passed away in a tragic accident ten years ago. And one netizen wrote, “Marcus Hayes got what he deserved.  Disgusts me that the Philadelphia Inquirer allowed this to be put out.  He should’ve been fired days ago.”

Sure enough, some fans expressed their shock at the news of the assault. One user wrote “Um sorry what?” But others did not feign surprise at Joel’s actions. Moreover, they brought up his actions during last season’s playoffs where he controversially pulled Mitchell Robinson by his leg, risking a major injury.

Meanwhile, understanding that he might get suspended, one netizen hilariously posted a meme of Joel searching for travel locations in China once Adam Silver finds out about the alleged assault. Obviously, most players begin playing overseas after they no longer find a place in the NBA.

And one fan just deemed the Sixers “finished” after Embiid’s latest act. Yes, they have had a terrible start to the season, losing four of their five games. Moreover, they have been playing without Paul George and Embiid. And if the 76ers talisman misses more time because of a suspension, the Sixers’ fortune looks grim.

Do you think Joel Embiid did the right thing by shoving Marcus Hayes?