PHILADELPHIA — Joel Embiid is striving to embrace the potential benefits of seeking assistance. Embiid’s career has been marked by an MVP award but overshadowed by numerous injuries that have hampered his playing time yet may eventually heal.
Even casual fans of the 76ers can recount Embiid’s unfortunate injury saga: broken bones in his feet, a dislocated finger that resembled a flimsy straw, a torn meniscus in his right knee, a damaged ligament in his thumb, an episode with Bell’s palsy, and most recently, a sinus issue that led him to request a reduction in camera lights to alleviate the discomfort.
Recently, he competed wearing a carbon graphite mask reminiscent of something from “Phantom of the Opera.” This protection is necessary to shield his face from potential hits that could lead to yet another lengthy absence from games, a dilemma that has plagued his career.
Standing at 7 feet with a wingspan that could extend across multiple Liberty Bells, Embiid’s ability to hit spot-up 3-pointers is crucial. His presence is vital for the Philadelphia 76ers, distinguishing between a playoff contender and a team struggling in the NBA standings.
Embiid feels the weight of expectation. Drafted as the third overall pick in the 2014 NBA draft, he carries not just the hopes of Philadelphia but also the disappointment arising from injuries that kept him from fully realizing his potential as one of the league’s top players. Recognizing the impact on his mental well-being, he has come to terms with needing help.
Originally hesitant like several elite athletes such as Simone Biles and Naomi Osaka, Embiid has decided to confront the stigma around mental health. He is now fully engaged in therapeutic practices aimed at navigating turbulent times in his sporting career.
“It’s tough when you experience moments of self-doubt, especially when you know your potential but can’t achieve it,” Embiid noted. “I’ve learned to take it day by day, surround myself with positive people, and not dwell on the negative.”
Throughout the past year, Embiid has candidly discussed feelings of depression stemming from time spent on the sidelines — a situation he faced during two complete NBA seasons, along with significant portions of others due to recovery, rehabilitation, and resting. This season follows that same pattern.
Joining him for the journey are his hometown partner All-Star Tyrese Maxey and veteran Paul George, forming a highly anticipated trio expected to compete with teams like Boston, New York, and Cleveland for dominance in the Eastern Conference.
However, the trio has only shared the court in its entirety for two games this season, all while dealing with their injuries.
Despite battling headaches and dizziness, Embiid had an impressive performance, scoring 34 points and leading the 76ers to victory over Charlotte, completing a sweep of the Hornets and boosting the team’s record to a modest 9-16.
“He makes the game easier,” George remarked. “There were just some plays we weren’t in sync on, but as we get more time on the court together, it’ll improve.”
A recurring question is posed within the NBA community: What achievements would the 76ers have reached had Embiid been healthy enough to consistently participate in 80 games each season?
As is customary, Embiid will miss the second game of a back-to-back on Saturday against Cleveland. “As long as I see improvements every day, that’s a positive,” he commented.
Ambitiously, Embiid aims to navigate each day as he strives to regain full health in anticipation of the playoffs. His honesty regarding the need for therapy contrasts with his public persona as a playful figure who enjoys teasing rivals in both the locker room and on social media.
Having signed a $193 million contract extension prior to the season, Embiid has leaned on the support of his wife and young son through challenging times.
He acts as a mentor to younger teammates like Maxey and rookie Jared McCain, and he finally has a relatable companion this season in fellow Olympic gold medalist George, who also has faced significant injuries during his career.
“Support is vital,” Embiid said. “Honestly, when you have encouragement from family, close individuals, teammates, and players like George, that’s what drives you to keep pushing forward. I’m motivated by the people who care about me and support my journey. I strive not to disappoint them, which is something I’m working on. With such strong support, it becomes difficult to hold onto negative feelings. I enjoy pleasing others, so perseverance is key.”
The mantra for Embiid is simple: keep persevering. It’s his current path toward finding fulfillment on the court and in his personal life, while also achieving peace through the healing process. Even as he works toward improving mental health, physical recovery may take more time. “It’s a constant effort. We’ll see if it leads to success,” he noted. “When all else fails, I’m open to exploring new options and determining what might work.”