Is Joel Embiid's time with the Philadelphia 76ers running out? Analyst sounds alarm over recurring injuries
The Philadelphia 76ers are entering the 2025–26 season with uncertainty clouding their cornerstone star, Joel Embiid. After finishing last season with a brutal 24–58 record, largely due to injury-plagued absences from Embiid, Paul George, and Tyrese Maxey, the spotlight now shifts to the future of their 31-year-old MVP center.
While the team hopes for a bounce-back year, one respected NBA analyst believes Embiid might be nearing the end of his playing days.
Keith Pompey raises serious doubts about Joel Embiid's future
Joel Embiid's injury history has never been a secret. Since being drafted in 2014, he has missed a staggering 400 games due to a range of issues — from foot fractures and knee surgeries to facial injuries and back strains. What's changed now is how openly he's begun to speak about the toll it has taken on him.
'The way I was playing a year ago, it's not the way I'm playing right now. It sucks,' Embiid said during an emotional moment last season. 'But I believe... I probably need to fix the problem and then I'll be back at that level, but it's hard to have trust when you're not yourself. It's tough. You know you can do so much more.'
That level of transparency alarmed longtime 76ers reporter Keith Pompey. Speaking on SiriusXM NBA Radio, Pompey said, 'I think Joel (Embiid) might know the end is near… Rarely do you have a guy tell you how much pain he's in and how much they're going through.'
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Pompey asserted that this wasn't inside information, but rather his interpretation of Embiid's comments and the tone of a recent ESPN feature.
Though Pompey admitted, 'I could be wrong. He could come out and have another MVP season,' his remarks reflected a growing concern shared by fans and analysts alike — that Embiid, despite his dominance, may not be able to withstand the physical grind much longer.
Philadelphia 76ers are looking to come back stronger
While Tyrese Maxey and Paul George are on track to return healthy, Embiid's status could significantly shape the 76ers' future roster decisions.
The team has said they expect him back for training camp, but questions remain.
So far, it is unclear if this is the beginning of the end or just another chapter in Embiid's rollercoaster career. It is fair to say that his availability will define Philadelphia's trajectory next season and beyond.
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Marcus Morris Sr arrested in Florida as financial crime allegations hit 13-year NBA career
FAQs
Has Joel Embiid announced retirement?
No, Embiid has not publicly discussed retirement.
How many games has Embiid missed in his career?
He has missed around 400 games since entering the league in 2014.
Will Joel Embiid return for the 2025–26 season?
Yes, the 76ers expect him to be ready for training camp.
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