As Joel Embiid enters his 10th NBA season with the Philadelphia 76ers, the franchise star is delivering a powerful message: winning requires unity, resilience, and sacrifice. Speaking at the team’s media day ahead of the 2025-26 campaign, Embiid made it clear that individual brilliance will never be enough unless the entire roster is aligned toward the same goal.
Embiid on What It Takes to Win
“You’re not going to be ready to win until everybody is on the same page,” Embiid said. “No matter who’s in or out, you find a way to win.”
His remarks reflected the maturity of a two-time MVP who has endured highs, lows, and persistent injury setbacks throughout his career. Embiid emphasized that championships are built on trust, communication, and a shared commitment between players and coaches.
Injuries Remain the Elephant in the Room
While Embiid’s leadership remains unquestioned, his durability continues to be a concern. The 31-year-old was limited to just 19 games last season due to a knee injury that required arthroscopic surgery in April. It was another chapter in a career repeatedly interrupted by health issues dating back to foot injuries in his early years.
“When I came back last year, I wasn’t close to where I wanted to be, but I pushed because I care so much about my teammates,” Embiid admitted. “Looking back, I probably rushed it.”
Embiid’s Approach to Recovery
This time around, Embiid insists he is taking a measured approach. There’s no firm timeline for his return, but he is working closely with the medical staff on a gradual rehabilitation plan.
“All I can do is take it day by day and make sure everything is done the right way,” he explained. “The goal is not just to play but to play consistently without setbacks.”
Head coach Nick Nurse echoed that sentiment, saying the team hopes this season will be about “managing” Embiid’s availability rather than being forced to shut him down.
Paul George Also on the Mend
The Sixers’ offseason gamble on Paul George also hangs in the balance. The nine-time All-Star, who signed a four-year, $212 million deal last summer, endured what he called a “rock bottom” debut season in Philadelphia, averaging just 16.2 points across 41 games.
Now 35, George is recovering from a knee procedure in July and confirmed he won’t participate in training camp or the preseason trip to Abu Dhabi. However, he remains hopeful about returning for opening night.
“I still believe I have a lot of game left in me,” George said. “It’s about ramping up smartly, day by day.”
Odds Stacked Against Philadelphia
With both stars rehabbing, bookmakers have Philadelphia listed as a 40-1 longshot for the 2026 NBA title. Last season’s collapse—dropping 31 of their final 36 games without Embiid and George—was a harsh reminder of how fragile their championship window has become.
To make matters worse, promising guard Jared McCain suffered a UCL tear in his thumb during a preseason workout, adding to the Sixers’ injury headaches.
Leadership Beyond the Box Score
Despite the challenges, Embiid remains the cultural anchor of the franchise. He has already begun mentoring rookies like VJ Edgecombe, instilling the mental toughness required to thrive in the NBA.
As the Sixers prepare for another uncertain season, Embiid’s message rings loudest: winning isn’t about luck or even individual dominance—it’s about finding a way, together.