Despite a dominant season, a Philadelphia radio host demands Joel Embiid prove himself with playoff magic, not just regular-season heroics.
Joel Embiid has bounced back in a major way since returning from the knee injury that limited him to just 19 games during the 2024-25 season.
The seven-time All-Star and former league MVP is in the midst of another monster season, averaging Joel Embiid stats: 26.6 points, 7.5 rebounds, 1.1 blocks, 49.4% from the field, and 32.0% from behind the arc. He's coming off a 33-point, nine-rebound, one-block performance on 9-19 shooting against the Phoenix Suns.
While it appears that Embiid may be back to playing at a high level, some believe that there are still questions that need to be answered regarding the superstar center.
On 97.5 The Fanatic, host Sean Brace praised Embiid's recent play, but it made it clear that regular-season success isn't enough at this stage of his career; he needs to see Embiid step up during the postseason.
"I'm willing to sit here and say that he has been playing unbelievably," Brace said. "He looks fresh; he looks youthful out there. The issue is now everyone wants to pound the pavement and beat their chest over everyone owing Embiid an apology."
Brace continued by stressing that his judgment will come later in the season.
"I'll apologize in May, I'll apologize in June, hopefully after the season is over," Brace continued. "I'm not apologizing right now because guess what, it's not about right now, it never was. If you were somewhat an Embiid detractor at this point in his career, it's about the fact he can't stay healthy, so if you want to celebrate now in February on February 6th, then throw him the parade."
Embiid is often dominant in the regular season; however, his lack of postseason success is well-documented, as he has been criticized for disappearing in key moments throughout his career. His health over the years raised other questions about his availability and ability to remain on the floor when it matters most.
So far, he has been relatively healthy this season for the 30-22 Philadelphia 76ers as they look to stay competitive in the Eastern Conference. The 76ers are hoping Embiid's stellar play can carry over into the postseason as he chases his first deep postseason run and silences critics once and for all.
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