Philadelphia 76ers star Joel Embiid recognizes that the team’s medical staff will sometimes urge him to take it easy during the upcoming season—a suggestion he doesn’t always welcome but understands is essential.
Following a practice session in the Bahamas, Embiid admitted that it would be challenging for him to hold back, but he knows that adhering to their advice is vital for his long-term health, particularly with the playoffs in mind. He’s dedicated to taking their recommendations seriously, even if it means curbing his instinct to play as much as he wants.
Embiid discussed his rapport with the medical team, mentioning that years of collaboration have fostered a strong understanding between them. With a smile, he joked that they might need to physically prevent him from playing if necessary, highlighting his competitive nature. While this could lead to moments of frustration for him, he values their relationship and trusts their expertise, especially now that he’s prioritizing his health for the postseason.
This season, Embiid is taking a careful approach to his training, gradually ramping up his activity in preparation for the NBA season. After missing significant time last year due to a knee injury and later competing with Team USA to win gold at the Olympics, he’s eager to return to peak performance. However, Embiid is also mindful of the importance of managing his health to prevent setbacks like those he experienced last season, all while keeping his eyes on the ultimate goal of a championship.
In preparation for the upcoming season, Embiid has made notable changes to his physical condition. He disclosed that he has lost between 25 to 30 pounds before training camp and plans to shed even more weight. This decision is part of his strategy to cope with the demanding nature of the NBA season and minimize wear and tear on his body, enhancing his chances of staying healthy throughout the season and into the playoffs.
Ultimately, Embiid’s focus is on winning an NBA title—a goal that has eluded the 76ers despite seven straight playoff appearances. He understands that individual accolades mean little without a championship, and the medical staff is fully aware that this is his main objective. Embiid believes that their combined efforts, with an emphasis on his health, will position them best to finally achieve the elusive title he has been pursuing throughout his career.
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