Joel Embiid’s future with the Philadelphia 76ers has become a hot topic of conversation following yet another disappointing second-round exit for Philadelphia.
Embiid still has three years and a whole lot of money remaining on his current contract with the Sixers, but at least one prominent radio host in Philadelphia thinks that moving on from him over the offseason should be a priority for the team.
Philly Radio Host Calls for 76ers to Move on From Joel Embiid
GettyJoel Embiid #21 of the Philadelphia 76ers reacts during the third quarter against the Denver Nuggets at the Wells Fargo Center on January 16, 2024 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Tim Nwachukwu/Getty Images)
During a recent segment on 97.5 The Fanatic in Philadelphia, Jon Marks implored the Sixers not to bring Embiid back for the 2026-27 NBA season, and beyond.
“Bringing back Joel Embiid would be silly. Joel Embiid sets the culture for the team and you’re never ever, ever going to get away from that until he’s not here anymore. If your best player and your MVP and the only way you’re winning has trouble showing up to team activities and practice and putting in the effort that needs to be put in to win a championship, you’re never going to win,” Marks said.
“Bob Myers isn’t stupid and he obviously knows what’s going on [with] the inner-workings of the organization. He knows what’s going on. He knows when Tyrese Maxey says, ‘He’s late for everything,’ that’s a problem. You can’t bring Joel Embiid back.”
ESPN’s Kendrick Perkins Also Called for 76ers to Move on From Joel Embiid
Marks isn’t the first media member to share this view, as it has also been pitched nationally. During a recent appearance on ESPN’s First Take, NBA analyst Kendrick Perkins also called for Philadelphia to part ways with Embiid.
“As far as Joel Embiid, this relationship has run it’s course. It’s time for both parties to separate. I think it would be in the best interest for the organization, and it would also be in the best interest for Joel Embiid,” Perkins said.
“I believe Joel Embiid needs a change of scenery. I believe Joel Embiid needs a breath of fresh air, to go to another place and play to be under another organization, to be under different leadership.”
Of course, any conversation regarding an Embiid trade needs to start with his contract. With three years and over $190 million remaining, finding a willing trade partner for the former MVP will be [much] easier said than done. That doesn’t mean it’s impossible, but it’s certainly not as simple as saying, “Hey, the Sixers should trade him.”
Plus, before any more roster decisions are made, the Sixers need to identify a front office replacement for president of basketball operations Daryl Morey, who was recently relieved of his duties after six seasons. Selecting Morey’s replacement is the top priority currently facing the organization. Once the new-look front office is in place, the Sixers can decide what they want to do regarding Embiid.
Philadelphia Radio Host Implores 76ers to Trade Joel Embiid This Offseason