The Philadelphia 76ers’ season has already taken an unexpected turn, falling far short of the towering expectations set after some ambitious offseason moves.
Despite landing nine-time All-Star Paul George, securing Tyrese Maxey with a huge contract extension, and getting Joel Embiid to ink a new deal following his Olympic success, the team finds itself off to a 2-12 start to the 2024-25 campaign.
The situation reached a breaking point after a recent loss to the Miami Heat when reports surfaced of Maxey confronting Embiid about his persistent tardiness.
The drama deepened when behind-the-scenes tensions were revealed about the heated team meeting.
“When ESPN reported details on Tuesday morning, from inside the 76ers’ team meeting following Monday night’s blown lead in Miami, one league figure close to Philadelphia’s All-Star center told me: ‘Joel is going to be furious.’ And that Embiid was going to try and find the Sixers’ supposed snitch,” insider Jake Fischer said, via NBACentral.
People close to Joel Embiid think he wants to find the snitch in the Sixers’ locker room, per @JakeLFischer
“When ESPN reported details on Tuesday morning, from inside the 76ers’ team meeting following Monday night’s blown lead in Miami, one league figure close to… pic.twitter.com/XmJHyxxMze
— NBACentral (@TheDunkCentral) November 21, 2024
Embiid attempted to defuse the situation by dismissing the significance of the meeting and Maxey’s comments about his punctuality.
He emphasized that the exchange lasted merely 30 seconds, suggesting media coverage had blown the incident out of proportion.
The center attributed this amplification to his high-profile status, noting how stories involving him tend to escalate beyond their actual scope.
The disappointing start has cast a shadow over what should have been a promising season for the Embiid-George-Maxey trio.
The initial buzz surrounding George’s arrival has dissipated amid mounting challenges. Injuries have plagued the team, while chemistry issues persist.
Apart from rookie Jared McCain’s encouraging performances, the supporting cast has struggled to make meaningful contributions.
