Joel Embiid Lost 25+ Pounds In Offseason, Committed To Increasing Odds Of Health In Playoffs
Joel Embiid revealed at media day that he lost 25 to 30 pounds during the offseason. Embiid played in just 39 games in 23-24 after winning MVP in 22-23 when he played in 66 games. Throughout Embiid's playoff career, he has had various injuries that has limited him from being at his full effectiveness. Last season, Embiid came back from a torn meniscus for the playoffs.
"I still have a ways to go," said Embiid about his weight loss. "I still want to lose more, but it is a process. I think for me and Daryl will tell you this, as soon as we lost last year I just texted him 'We have to do whatever it takes to make sure I get a full season in health. This year, there's no agenda. There's no All-Star. There's no All-NBA. There's none of that. It's whatever it takes to make sure I get to that point where I'm ready to go."
The Sixers won 54 games last season despite Embiid playing in just 39 total games. Philadelphia upgraded in the offseason by signing Paul George, Caleb Martin and Andre Drummond.