Philadelphia 76ers coach Doc Rivers showed little confidence in Joel Embiid returning this season.
The 76ers dropped Game 2 to the Miami Heat, 119-103, making it even more apparent how much Joel Embiid’s absence affects the team. Since he got hurt, the 76ers haven’t been the same.
They have gotten boat-raced the last two games against the Heat, which shouldn’t happen. This team isn’t the same, and there is no motivation on that team without Embiid.
Head coach Doc Rivers didn’t seem confident that his star player would return any time soon.
Embiid suffered a right orbital fracture and has a mild concussion against the Raptors last Friday, and since then, it’s like all the air has gotten sucked out of Philly.
When he is on the court, it’s a difference-maker, and without him, the 76ers could get swept against the Heat.
Joel Embiid injury update: Doc Rivers sounds wary about 76ers star’s return
What does Rivers mean by he doesn’t think Embiid has cleared any of the necessary steps? Is this River saying the injury is worse than reports suggest? Does this mean Embiid isn’t entirely out of concussion protocol?
Regardless of what Rivers means by his vague quote, he seems defeated, and it’s like he knows without Embidd, the 76ers don’t stand a chance.
Embiid has been such a force for the 76ers this year, and it’s heartbreaking to see him go down with an injury right now during the playoffs, but was he the whole team’s identity?
Is there no one who can rally the troops in his absence? Right now, the answer is no, so unless Embidd can get back on the court for Game 3 or 4, it’s safe to assume the 76ers will get eliminated.
Even if Embiid cannot return, why not have him come into the locker room and motivate his teammates? They should want to win for him, so once he can return, they’re still battling for an NBA Championship.