Philadelphia 76ers center Joel Embiid spoke on not being selected to the All-Star Game.
Many believe Philadelphia 76ers superstar center Joel Embiid was robbed of an All-Star Game selection this season.
While he started off the season rather slow, Embiid has been playing like one of the NBA's best in recent months. It's clear the seven-time All-Star is unfazed about not being selected, speaking about the one achievement on his mind after the 76ers' win over the Golden State Warriors.
“I don’t need any validation from anybody," Embiid said postgame, per John Clark. "I'm happy where I'm at. I’m excited to be playing every night. If that didn't happen, who cares, I've already accomplished everything. There’s only one thing missing for me. Not my wife [gesturing to his ring finger]... another ring. As a basketball player, there’s only one thing missing."
It's clear Embiid is not focused on individual awards but is looking to hoist the Larry O'Brien Trophy at season's end. For the Sixers to have any shot at doing so, Embiid remaining healthy for the playoffs is a top priority.
As of Wednesday afternoon, the 76ers are the No. 6 seed in the Eastern Conference with a record of 29-21. They trail the Detroit Pistons (39-12), New York Knicks (32-18), Boston Celtics (32-18), Toronto Raptors (30-21), and Cleveland Cavaliers (30-21).
With Philadelphia just a few games back of the No. 2 seed in the East, it puts into perspective how wide open the conference is this season.
The advantage the Sixers have over other contenders is that, when healthy, Embiid is almost always the most talented player on the floor. He is averaging 26.1 points, 7.4 rebounds, and 3.8 assists on 48.8% shooting in 29 games played.
Not to mention, Tyrese Maxey is having a career year, to the point where his name has come up in MVP conversations. The suspension of Paul George will, however, hurt chemistry entering the postseason, as he will return to the lineup with less than a dozen games remaining in the regular season.
All this is to say, the one goal on Embiid's mind is much more achievable than a first glance would suggest.
Join the 76ersRoundtable Community
Become part of our growing 76ers Roundtable community — and it’s completely FREE. Share your takes in written posts or videos, jump into discussions with our Roundtable staff, and connect with fellow Sixers fans who live and breathe the team. If you’re asked to download the Roundtable app or sign up, that’s free too!
Anthony Pasciolla is the publisher of 76ersRoundtable. He can be reached via email at ampasciolla@gmail.com or followed on X @AnthonyPasci.