Joel Embiid’s absence from the Philadelphia 76ers’ Friday night game against the Brooklyn Nets is already frustrating for fans, as he sits out due to left knee injury management. However, what truly sparked the buzz was his apparent lack of punctuality. Superstars are typically expected to be present courtside during games, even if sidelined, participating in pregame routines to maintain their leadership role.

Embiid’s delay reignited concerns stemming from a recent team meeting where Tyrese Maxey reportedly called him out for being consistently late to team activities, impacting the locker room’s atmosphere. The injury itself is part of the Sixers’ cautious approach to managing Embiid’s workload.

Having missed the first six games of the season following maintenance on his surgically repaired left knee, he also served a three-game suspension for an unrelated incident. Before the season began, the team had outlined a strategy to proactively limit his minutes to ensure peak health for the playoffs. While the plan made sense on paper, it has contributed to early frustrations for both the team and its fanbase.

Among the reactions, one fan humorously commented, “Stuck in traffic give him 15,” lightening the mood amid heavier critiques. However, Embiid’s pattern of tardiness—now highlighted by both fan opinions and Maxey’s direct criticism—raises questions about his ability to set a high standard as the team’s leader consistently.

The whole thing caught fans completely off guard. Well, after the collision with Jaren Jackson Jr. in the previous Grizzlies matchup, it was a given that he would be doubtful for Brooklyn. But the late notification of sitting out the Nets game – specifically, half an hour before the game, per Kyle Neubeck of PHLY Sports – and absence for the pregame warmups suggests that the team was only informed of his unavailability at the last second. That’s not typical protocol for players listed as ‘probable’ or ‘questionable’.

Couple this with Maxey’s direct critique and fans can’t help but guess the reason for the whole affair.

Fans on X resign themselves to disappointing Joel Embiid’s fate

“Probably late,” wrote another fan in response to Underdog NBA‘s update on Embiid’s absence from the pregame routine, reflecting their growing expectation that Embiid’s absence or tardiness has become somewhat predictable. With his history of being absent or showing up late for various team activities, including meetings, practices, or now, warm-ups, fans are becoming resigned to the idea that this is just how things are with the 7-footer.

Another user commented, “He’s late.” In contrast to the above fan, this one seems to be quite convinced about the situation. It signals that fans have grown tired of the excuses and just want to call it as they see it: Embiid is late, and it’s becoming an issue that’s hard to ignore. It reflects a more direct dissatisfaction. Particularly in light of the earlier controversy regarding his unreported injury status. The fan seems less inclined to offer any leniency, pushing the narrative that this is just one more example of the Cameroonian big’s lack of professionalism.

Yet another fan had a hint of resignation and a certain level of exasperation. “He’s probably late,” they said, implying that Joel Embiid’s behavior has become so commonplace that it no longer surprises them. There’s a sense of “here we go again,” as if lateness has become so synonymous with Embiid’s routine that it’s hardly worth reacting to anymore.

And finally, “This f***ing guy can’t be serious.” Given the choice of NSFW words, it’s obvious that the fan feels strongly about the 7x All-Star’s apparent lack of accountability. It’s only natural that we, as fans, expect our stars to lead by example. But Joel’s patterns of missed games, late arrivals, and unclear communication about injuries might seem unprofessional and disrespectful to both the team and all who support him.

Joel Embiid’s inconsistent availability and tardiness have left fans questioning his commitment and leadership. His ongoing patterns make it hard to see him as the dependable star the 76ers need. Until things change, the ‘what could have been’ will probably overshadow his potential.