USA Today via Reuters
Jan 15, 2024; Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA; Philadelphia 76ers center Joel Embiid (21) shoots a foul shot against the Houston Rockets during the second quarter at Wells Fargo Center. Mandatory Credit: Bill Streicher-USA TODAY Sports
USA Today via Reuters
Jan 15, 2024; Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA; Philadelphia 76ers center Joel Embiid (21) shoots a foul shot against the Houston Rockets during the second quarter at Wells Fargo Center. Mandatory Credit: Bill Streicher-USA TODAY Sports
The Philadelphia 76ers continued their dominant run by defeating the young Houston Rockets squad. The Rockets tried to make a late-game surge and outscored the Sixers 38-26 in the fourth quarter. However, the return of Joel Embiid to the lineup proved too much for the Rockets to overcome, and they lost the game 124-115. Embiid dominated his opponents throughout the game and finished with 41 points and 10 rebounds.
The reigning MVP trolled his critics after the game for questioning his intent for missing games this season.
Joel Embiid’s response to recent criticism
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Joel Embiid is having another MVP-caliber season this year. He is averaging 34.9 points, 11.7 rebounds, and 2 blocks. However, some critics have complained about Embiid missing games against tougher competition. The Philadelphia 76ers star responded to his recent criticism after his incredible 41-point performance. “One of the main things I say is as soon as you use the name Joel Embiid, that’s going to get you a lot of likes. And that’s going to get you a lot of money. As long as my name has a chance to help somebody make some money, then I’m for it. Keep trolling, I like it.” Embiid hilariously said.
Embiid was asked about criticism he’s received for missing games vs. tougher comp this year.
“One of the main things I say is as soon as you use the name Joel Embiid, that’s going to get you a lot of likes. And that’s going to get you a lot of money. As long as my name has a… pic.twitter.com/JNblEYTMnG
— PHLY Sixers (@PHLY_Sixers) January 15, 2024
Embiid has played only 28 games so far this season. He made his return tonight after missing three straight games due to a knee injury. Before that, the reigning MVP was out for 11 days due to a right ankle sprain.
Embiid’s season has been plagued by injuries and the Sixers are being extra cautious because they want their superstar to be available for the playoffs.
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Joel Embiid reveals primary focus amid criticism
While Embiid addressed his recent criticism for missing games, he also revealed his primary focus for this season. “The goal is to be ready for the playoffs.” Embiid said. The Sixers superstar has proven he is an elite player during the regular season. Unfortunately, Embiid has never been able to carry his regular season momentum to the playoffs. He is infamous for underperforming in the postseason and choking in big moments. Joel has been unable to get the Sixers past the second round in the playoffs.
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Embiid had the chance to lead the Sixers to the Conference Finals last season. But he choked in Game 7 against the Boston Celtics and scored only 15 points. Embiid needs to prove that he can lead the Sixers to a Championship. He is one of the best players in the league during the regular season. But it is of no use if he cannot help the Sixers win a title. The Sixers have played great all season and have a legitimate chance at winning a Championship this season. And hopefully, Joel Embiid can remain healthy to lead them to their ultimate goal.
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