5. Joel Embiid’s weight
Joel Embiid‘s fitness level has been a recurring concern in Philadelphia since he was drafted third overall in 2014. First the foot injury, then the knee injury, and many bumps and bruises in between, Embiid has never quite remained healthy for an extended period of time. As a physical 7-foot-2 center, the worries about his stamina and ability to avoid injury are warranted.
The media silence around Embiid during the hiatus hasn’t come as a surprise. He’s a borderline recluse at this point — he stays home, works hard, and doesn’t really venture into the public sphere as much as he once did. Embiid has shied away from the spotlight recently, and a global health pandemic didn’t exactly create an environment for Embiid to venture into the world.
Embiid has greatly improved his diet since entering the league. All indications are he works hard too, and does so on a consistent basis. He’s in the gym, and he’s well aware of his injury history and stamina. He knows the Sixers need him in the postseason, which is now fast approaching.
I choose not to question Embiid’s dedication to fitness at this point. He should come back to training camp in Orlando in the best shape possible, given the circumstances. Even so, Philadelphia will need to make sure he’s in game shape. Brett Brown shouldn’t overwork him during the Sixers’ eight regular season contests.