"If they have to punch me and slap me" - Joel Embiid gets candid on managing health after missing 76ers' training camp scrimmages
Despite Philadelphia 76ers superstar center Joel Embiid reportedly entering training camp in improved shape, his squad is slowly ramping him up. After being held out of another scrimmage, the 2023 MVP candidly touched on balancing his desire to be on the court with managing his workload.
During Monday's media day, Embiid said he lost "about 20 to 30 pounds" over the offseason and still wanted to "lose more" weight. He cited his desire to "do whatever it takes" to remain healthy for the 2025 playoffs after struggling with injuries throughout his career.
Embiid seemingly maintained his game conditioning by competing with Team USA at this summer's Paris Olympics, securing his first gold medal. Nevertheless, Philly has reportedly kept the seven-time All-Star out of scrimmages to begin training camp.
On Thursday, Embiid spoke about the difficulty of being held off the floor when he wants to compete with his teammates, reiterating his long-term mindset.
"Taking my time, not pushing when you don't have to, but then again, I also let them know that I'm a competitor," Embiid said. "I'm gonna want to go out there and play, so I've gotta make sure. They've gotta make those decisions and save me from myself."
He later quipped that during the regular season, the Sixers may have to forcibly stop him from suiting up in too many games.
"It'll be tough. They know that if they have to punch me and slap me or take my stuff away for me not to get on that court, they're going to have to do it," Embiid said. "I might get mad, I might curse people out, but I think it's a relationship. We've been working together for years now. I think, now I look at the big picture."
Last season, Joel Embiid was limited to 39 contests, his lowest since he played 31 games in his rookie campaign (2016-17). That was primarily due to a left knee meniscus injury he suffered in late January, which required surgery in early February.
Embiid ultimately came back after just two months, with many feeling he returned too soon. He later appeared bogged down by injuries during Philly's six-game first-round playoff loss to the New York Knicks.
Also Read: "They gonna regret" - Former NBA guard sounds alarm for 76ers after injury-prone Joel Embiid's Paris Olympics stint
Joel Embiid determined to overcome playoff shortcomings and win his first NBA championship
During Thursday's media availability session, Joel Embiid reiterated his media day comments about his desire to win his first championship.
Embiid noted that he has nothing else to accomplish at this stage of his career, adding to his determination to preserve his health.
"I've already accomplished a lot. A lot of things, everything," Embiid said. "There's one thing missing, and they just know that's all I care about."
Despite his career accolades, Embiid has yet to make it past the postseason's second round. Meanwhile, the Sixers' last conference finals appearance came in 2001.
The 2024-25 season projects to possibly be Embiid's best chance to get over the hump. His squad added star wing Paul George in free agency, forming a Big 3 with himself and star guard Tyrese Maxey.
However, Philly's title hopes will likely hinge on Embiid's ability to manage his health throughout the season and playoffs.
Also Read: Joel Embiid willing to let go of All-Star and All-NBA honors to avoid entering postseason with injuries: "No agenda"