In their opening game of the season, the Philadelphia 76ers picked up a much-needed win over the Boston Celtics. After last year’s failed season, the 76ers desperately needed to kick off this year on the right foot.
Thanks to stellar play from VJ Edgecombe and Tyrese Maxey, Philadelphia is 1-0 on the year.
In the contest, however, Joel Embiid made only one of his nine baskets, finishing with four points in 20 minutes. Still under load management as he recovers from a lingering leg injury, Embiid looked like a shell of himself.
Despite making $55.2 million this season, the 76ers aren’t too concerned about him, for now.
GettyCAMDEN, NEW JERSEY – SEPTEMBER 26: Joel Embiid #21 of the Philadelphia 76ers participates in media day at 76ers Training Complex on September 26, 2025 in Camden, New Jersey. 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 Mitchell Leff/Getty Images)
Philadelphia 76ers Made Excuse for Joel Embiid
Embiid, initially, was not expected to be on the court for opening night. He missed the vast majority of the preseason and seemed to be rushed back to action.
Maybe it would have been smart to let him fully recover, especially if the team is still using his injury and “rust” as an excuse for his poor performance. Even after his woeful game, he still got some praise.
“I’m super happy he was out there,” said head coach Nick Nurse. “I think that he played good. I know that’s going to sound silly, one for nine. He just didn’t shoot it very good. I thought he transferred the ball good. I thought he made some good decisions. I thought he took good shots. I thought he protected the rim.”
While Nurse might be happy with Embiid’s performance, the center recorded a plus/minus of -16, which is hard to do in a win. He didn’t turn the ball over, but he missed all but one of his shots.
As for his defense, it was fine. The Celtics shot 46.2% when he was on the floor and 47.3% when he was off the floor, a marginal difference.
Despite the poor outing, Nurse was quick to provide an excuse for Embiid’s play.
“He hasn’t done much, right?” asked the coach. “He’s kind of played a scrimmage and a preseason game, and I think there’s some rust there, but I thought he was moving good and made good decisions, which is really positive.”
Philadelphia 76ers Need Embiid to Be at His Best
Embiid is one of the best players to ever suit up for the Sixers. His dominance, when healthy, is unquestionable.
However, despite his stardom, the Sixers have never made it past the second round, despite him sharing the court with some elite talent.
The 76ers are all-in on Maxey, Embiid, and Paul George. Add in Edgecombe, and after one game, the 76ers could be among the best teams in the NBA. They have always been in the mix, but they have yet to take the next step.
Placated by a win and Edgecombe’s excellent game, fans can stand to be patient. However, if losses pile up or Embiid remains disappointing, expect Philly fans to be quick to turn on The Process.
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