In a chat on NBA Countdown for Game 4 of the Finals, 76ers superstar Joel Embiid gave a tell-all on the East, his team, and his personal ambitions for next season. He also took a shot at the Boston Celtics and claimed that they only won the East due to myriads of injuries.
"I don't think so, not with the new CBA," said Embiid. "You also gotta understand, the whole East was hurt, myself included. It's a pretty good chance I'm coming next year."
The Celtics couldn't manage to close the series tonight and complete the sweep against the Mavericks but they are still up 3-1 in the series with just one win separating them from the Larry O'Brien trophy. With Jayson Tatum (26 years old) Jaylen Brown, Jrue Holiday, Derrick White, and Kristaps Porzingis, most fans and analysts would lean on calling the Celtics a dynasty in the East.
Cameroonian native Joel Embiid, however, sees it differently. It's no secret that the Celtics got some lucky breaks throughout this postseason, including injuries to several major superstars like Jimmy Butler, Donovan Mitchell, and Tyrese Haliburton. The Mavericks in the Finals has been the only healthy team they've faced so far, and they just lost the potential close-out game by 38 points.
While the 76ers are in no better position, some moves this summer and good health next spring could change that. Players like Paul George and Klay Thompson have been on their radar for months now and Embiid took it upon himself to do some personal recruiting live on the air.
Joel Embiid Tries To Recruit Paul George On Live TV
With room for one more max player this summer, the 76ers are in a good position to make a major signing and add another star to their rotation. In a somewhat limited pool of players, Paul George (a 9x All-Star) will probably be among the best free agents available.
"Great city great fans, we got great players," said Embiid "So hopefully this offseason we find a way to get better and add some pieces."
Embiid was not subtle when he glanced over at George and it was a clear attempt at trying to recruit him in front of a national audience. Obviously, the idea was not elaborated on any further but it's no secret that the 76ers are coveting George as a prized acquisition this offseason.
The 13-year NBA veteran is one of the best three-and-D wing players in the league and is coming off a brilliant season for the Clippers where he averaged 22.6 points, 5.2 rebounds, and 3.5 assists per game on 47.1% shooting. He could be the missing piece for the 76ers and the guy who helps Joel Embiid and Tyrese Maxey win their first championship.
I think it's still a longshot to believe that George would seriously leave the Clippers, but he does have experience leaving teams before. After multiple playoff losses, George might be inclined to pursue another change of scenery if the Clippers don't offer him the kind of money he's seeking.
Regardless, the 76ers are not ready to quit and they will be a problem for the Celtics or any other team in the East looking to make a run. With or without Paul George, Embiid will ensure that his team is at least competitive so they can have a chance to follow the Celtics' lead.
