**Embiid Use Under Fire After Sixers Season Opener**

muazhan

You need 2 min read

·

Post on Oct 24, 2024

53 visitor like this post

Share

Embiid Use Under Fire After Sixers Season Opener: Is He Too Reliant on His MVP Form?

The Philadelphia 76ers opened their season with a disappointing loss to the Boston Celtics, leaving fans and analysts alike questioning the team's reliance on Joel Embiid. While Embiid delivered a dominant performance with 26 points and 15 rebounds, the rest of the Sixers struggled to keep up, highlighting a crucial concern: Is the team too reliant on Embiid's MVP-caliber play?

The Embiid Dependency

The Sixers' offensive scheme often revolves around Embiid's post-up game, making him the focal point of their attack. While this strategy worked wonders during the regular season, it seems to falter in high-pressure playoff scenarios. Against the Celtics, Embiid's dominance was undeniable, but the supporting cast failed to capitalize on his presence, leaving him isolated and overwhelmed.

Tyrese Maxey and James Harden struggled to find their rhythm, failing to provide the consistent scoring threat necessary to relieve pressure from Embiid. Tobias Harris, despite his strong regular season, disappeared in the face of the Celtics' defense. This inconsistency from the supporting cast leaves Embiid carrying an unbearable weight, hindering the team's overall success.

The Need for a Balanced Offense

The Sixers need to diversify their offensive strategies. While Embiid remains a cornerstone, relying solely on his brilliance is a recipe for disaster. Implementing a more balanced approach that involves increased ball movement, off-ball cuts, and efficient perimeter shooting is essential.

Here's what the Sixers can do:

• Develop a stronger perimeter game: Maxey and Harden need to find their scoring touch, utilizing their speed and explosiveness to break down defenses.
• Improve ball movement: Increased ball movement and passing will create more opportunities for open shots, lessening the pressure on Embiid.
• Elevate role players: The Sixers need to maximize the contributions of players like De'Anthony Melton, P.J. Tucker, and Georges Niang.

The Future of the Sixers

The Sixers have the potential to be a championship contender, but their reliance on Embiid alone won't get them there. They need to establish a cohesive unit with a balanced offense and a strong defensive foundation. This requires a shift in mindset from both players and coaches, emphasizing team play over individual heroics.

Only then will the Sixers truly unleash their potential and become a serious threat in the Eastern Conference.

Keywords: Joel Embiid, Philadelphia Sixers, Boston Celtics, NBA, Playoffs, MVP, Offense, Balanced Offense, Team Play, Tyrese Maxey, James Harden, Tobias Harris, De'Anthony Melton, P.J. Tucker, Georges Niang,