It doubtful that the Philadelphia 76ers franchise big man would want to leave for the Miami Heat, but if he did, it wouldn’t make sense for either side.
The social media exchange (warning strong language in the link) between Joel Embiid and Jimmy Butler certainly got some fans fo the Philadelphia 76ers concerned that Butler was basically recruiting his close friend to join him on the Miami Heat. However, I recently wrote that it’s probably nothing to worry and Embiid looked happy in the Sixers win over the Los Angeles Clippers, so it’s doubtful it happens.
Still, if he is or becomes serious about leaving Philly for the Miami Heat, then Sixers fans should know that it wouldn’t make much sense for either side to do a deal sending the All-Star big man to South Beach.
On the 76ers end, while Embiid and Ben Simmons have been far from a perfect fit on offense, the recent win against the Clippers proved the duo can play well together. Head coach Brett Brown ran a lot of screens for the two close to or inside the paint. Brown even had this to say about their chemistry in the contest.
"“It’s arguably the best game those two have paired up with since I’ve been here,”"
That’s impressive statement considering they’ve played three seasons together now. Embiid had 26 points and nine rebounds, while Simmons finished with 26 points, 12 rebounds, and 10 assists. If they can continue to play this well together, then there’s no reason why Philly should consider trading either of their stars.
In the event that everything falls apart this postseason and general manager Elton Brand does decide to break up the duo of All-Star, then trading Embiid to the Heat still doesn’t make sense for the Sixers. This biggest reason being is that Miami doesn’t have the assets to give Philly equal value for Embiid.