People will say playoffs, but just like Embiid said, he's been hurt every playoffs except for during the bubble, but there was no Simmons on that team, and Embiid was not his MVP self at that point.
https://www.nytimes.com/2024/07/20/magazine/joel-embiid-interview.html
Here's a detailed summary of the interview with Joel Embiid:
**Choosing Team USA over France**
* Embiid has dual citizenship (Canadian and American) and also feels connected to Cameroon (his birthplace).
* He felt pressured by France to play for them and ultimately chose the USA because he'd spent more time there and felt comfortable with their approach of letting him take his time with the decision.
* He expressed frustration with the historical and current relationship between France and Cameroon, which influenced his decision.
**Finding balance between seriousness and fun**
* Embiid acknowledges being a goofier and less serious player in the past, especially on Twitter.
* Having a son changed his perspective, making him want to be a better role model and take basketball more seriously.
* He highlights the importance of focus and preparation for winning.
**Struggles in Philadelphia**
* Embiid has dealt with multiple coaching changes, player turnover, and injuries during his time with the 76ers.
* He blames himself partly for not winning a championship due to injuries and not always performing at his peak.
* He emphasizes the value of continuity and stability, which the 76ers haven't always had.
* Despite the frustrations, Embiid expresses his love for Philadelphia and seems open to staying there long-term. (He jokingly says he doesn't eat cheesesteaks, though!)
**Grieving his brother's death and its impact**
* Losing his brother at a young age was a life-changing experience for Embiid.
* It made him value family more and appreciate life beyond basketball.
* He shared his unique way of honoring his brother by wanting to have four children (because three felt like an incomplete number).
**Mental health and competitive drive**
* Embiid avoids using the term "depression" but acknowledges feeling down after his injury last season.
* He expresses a belief in mental health but struggles with admitting vulnerability due to his background.
* Despite challenges, Embiid maintains a strong competitive spirit that fuels his desire to win.
**Expectations for the Olympics**
* Embiid anticipates boos from French fans but welcomes the challenge.
* He acknowledges the talent on the US team but also recognizes that some players, like LeBron James, are not at their peak anymore.
* There's a chance for other teams to compete for the gold.
**Self-belief and greatest-of-all-time conversation**
* Embiid believes his injuries have prevented him from being part of the greatest-of-all-time conversation for basketball players.
* He acknowledges the "hot take" potential of his statement but stands by it based on his accomplishments and what could have been.
* He emphasizes that his understanding of life being bigger than basketball doesn't prevent him from giving his all and striving to win while he plays.
Thoughts?
Do you tend to agree with Embiid?
Take all the hate out, and just go with sheer talent and ability, as well as what he's been able to produce when he's absolutely healthy.
Obviously titles would have to come with it, but peak Embiid would have as good a shot as any of the top 10 in being the goat IMO.
