As long as Philadelphia 76ers fans can remember, superstar Joel Embiid has spearheaded the Sixers and arguably established himself as one of the most dominant centers of all time. However, given the state of his effectiveness on defense -- while Andre Drummond rolls back the years with a string of imposing performances -- the Sixers should consider handing the latter a starting role while strategically selecting Embiid's matchups.
In recent times, the Sixers and minute restrictions seem to come hand in hand, something Embiid is becoming very familiar with as Philadelphia attempts to manage his persistent knee issues. With a large portion of his minutes coming in the first half of games, the 2023 MVP is battling with the superior players on the opponents' rosters -- something that is preventing him from unearthing his devastating rhythm.
During his sporadic appearances this season, Embiid is averaging 18.2 points and 5.6 rebounds per game, while shooting 40.7% from the floor. These numbers represent career lows in all three categories. Additionally, Embiid has displayed a shell of his former self on defense due to his limited physical output.
Drummond's dominant defensive displays could benefit Embiid
In comparison, Andre Drummond returned to Philadelphia in the preseason with a monumental point to prove after his underwhelming return to the franchise during the 2024-25 campaign. In which the veteran was limited to 40 appearances, while the Sixers' season plunged to embarrassing depths.
Nevertheless, showcasing a revigorated figure, Drummond has rediscovered his intimidating stature in the paint that the 76ers believed they would have at their disposal when they acquired the center in 2024. This season, he is averaging 7.7 points and 9.4 rebounds per game in around 21 minutes on the court.
Despite not providing the same offensive contribution as Embiid, Drummond has provided a more resilient figure on defense, which has allowed players such as Tyrese Maxey to elevate his performance levels to a caliber that many believed was not possible.
Currently, the 76ers sit in sixth position in the Eastern Conference standings with a 13-10 record. The franchise cannot accept another campaign that ends without a postseason campaign. Embiid regaining his offensive prowess and mobility will be essential if the Sixers wish to achieve any form of success, but that should not come at the expense of a playoff spot.
Philadelphia head coach Nick Nurse must be more strategic with the minutes Embiid features during games. Confidence is key when it comes to elite sports; a former MVP is no different. If Nurse can align Embiid's minutes when the opponent is utilizing a weaker rotation, this will not only benefit the player's confidence but also establish Philadelphia as a more menacing foe in the long term.
It could be a move that will anger the Philadelphia fan base; however, due to the essential defensive effort that the resurgent Andre Drummond is providing his team when he is in the rotation and the reduced level of efficiency that Joel Embiid is displaying, the 76ers should reconsider which center deserves a spot in the starting five.