DeMarcus Cousins thinks it’s time for the 76ers to trade Joel Embiid
The 2025 Philadelphia 76ers have started the season strong, currently boasting a 3-0 record. Key contributors in the backcourt, Tyrese Maxey and VJ Edgecombe, have been leading the charge more than Joel Embiid. Notably, the 76ers are still without Paul George, who remains sidelined due to injury.
While Embiid has been a stalwart presence down low for Philadelphia, conversations have already begun about whether it might be time for the team to move on from the former NBA MVP. This idea might sound unconventional, but considering Embiid’s impact and the team’s repeated postseason struggles—failing to progress past the Conference Finals or make the NBA Finals—it’s a discussion worth having.
Former NBA player and current analyst DeMarcus Cousins weighed in on the situation, suggesting that it’s fair to ask if the 76ers might actually perform better without Embiid. He believes the front office is actively exploring this possibility. Cousins stated,
“I’m pretty sure the front office is having talks about it, what it looks like, what the possibility is, and if they should consider closing this door moving forward.”
Of course, it’s still very early in the 2025 season, and the idea of being better off without a player of Embiid’s caliber may sound wild. However, there are a couple of critical factors fueling this debate.
One of Embiid’s biggest challenges has been his health. Throughout his NBA career, he has missed over 400 games due to various injuries. With age catching up and a history of health concerns, there is a real risk that these issues could worsen over time.
Another significant consideration is the evolving style of play in the NBA. Embiid typically commands the offense whenever he’s on the floor. Though dominant at times, his slower pace and tendency to hold the ball in the post can limit offensive fluidity and ball movement. Additionally, Embiid currently operates under a minutes restriction.
Without Embiid, however, the 76ers’ offense has been quicker and more dynamic, with Maxey and Edgecombe facilitating easier ball movement that fits today’s faster-paced game. This shift has shown promise early on.
Through the first two games of the season, Embiid is averaging 12 points, four rebounds, three assists, one steal, and 0.5 blocks per game, shooting 40% from the field.
The notion of trading Joel Embiid isn’t immediate, but depending on how the season unfolds, it could become a more serious topic of discussion. For now, Philadelphia will continue to monitor both Embiid’s performance and the team’s chemistry as they chase another championship run.
https://clutchpoints.com/nba/philadelphia-76ers/76ers-news-demarcus-cousins-thinks-its-time-for-sixers-to-trade-joel-embiid
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