Philadelphia 76ers fans are used to a healthy Joel Embiid dominating his opponents and draining an abundance of shots from the mid-range. This isn't what they are witnessing right now. The 2023 MVP is seriously struggling for efficiency.
In any other year, an out-of-sorts Embiid would be decimating the Sixers' championship hopes. However, things are different now. The 76ers have made an 8-1 start to the season without prime Embiid; imagine what they could do when he finally finds his spark.
The Sixers have already claimed the scalps of the New York Knicks, Cleveland Cavaliers, and Detroit Pistons this season. It's been a difficult start to the schedule, yet Philadelphia's star-studded roster has barely broken a sweat. This roster is dangerous, and it's hard to believe they won't be championship contenders.
Most impressively, they are doing this without Embiid leading the offense. Although the 32-year-old continues to make a positive contribution to winning basketball, his efficiency has deserted him so far. Embiid has averaged an impressive 19.6 points, 10 rebounds, and 4.4 assists per game. However, he has only shot 41.3 percent from the floor and 11.5 percent from deep.
The numbers don't look pretty, but there is no need to panic. Quite the opposite, actually; it should bring a strange sense of optimism to South Philly.
Embiid's return to form will take the 76ers to new heights
Rightfully, many experts and analysts stated the 76ers' new-look roster had some teething issues to endure. Eight wins later, that narrative has already been dispelled.
Philadelphia is legitimate championship contenders. Tyrese Maxey has already placed himself in early MVP discussions, LeBron James has embraced a team-first role, and Jaylen Brown is quickly finding his feet in a new city. The team is looking smooth.
And that's exactly why Embiid's struggles should be seen as a positive. While he is no longer the Sixers' leading offensive force, the future Hall of Famer still has the potential to score in bunches. His average of 9.6 points per game this season isn't a bad tally, but given his efficiency struggles, this tally could explode when he builds momentum.
Embiid clearly has trust issues with his body. The Kansas alum is settling for three-point shots, which aren't his strong suit. When he is working his defender in the paint, Embiid doesn't look as aggressive as he once did. This is a natural response by a player who has been plagued by injuries throughout his career. If he breaks through this mental barrier, he can take his game to the next level.
The 76ers are a force to be reckoned with this season, even without Embiid displaying his usual offensive brilliance. However, if he can return to form, Philadelphia will go from championship contenders to championship favorites.
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