Joel Embiid's Health Holds Key to 76ers' Playoff Run

Segment Spotlight: Quick Hits From Outspoken With Dan Sileo

Joel Embiid’s Health Remains Crucial to the 76ers’ Success

Joel Embiid may not be the 76ers’ best player, but he is their most important. Since his MVP season, he appears to be in the best shape we have seen him, possibly down about 30 pounds and putting less strain on his knees.

Philadelphia’s strong defense is partly due to Embiid’s ability to protect the basket. Keeping him healthy will require managing his minutes, even while the team is playing well and building a great record.

Nick Nurse should focus on getting the 76ers to a top-six seed before going from there. If they continue defending at this level and sharing the ball as they have early in the season, they will be dangerous. However, they cannot make a deep run unless Embiid is healthy and playing in April, May, and June. His health has always been his Achilles’ heel.