Embiid Calls for Organization-Wide Improvement After Sixers’ Season Ends
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The Philadelphia 76ers were eliminated from the playoffs on Sunday, falling 4-0 to the New York Knicks in the Eastern Conference semifinals after a 30-point defeat in Game 4 at Wells Fargo Center. The sweep came on the heels of Philadelphia’s 3-1 comeback victory over Boston in the first round.
“At times, it’s okay to just say the other team was better,” star center Joel Embiid said postgame. “Gotta get better, from top to bottom. Ownership, front office, players, coaches—everybody just gotta get better.”
Embiid on health and legacy
Embiid, 32, considered the season successful because the club managed his surgically repaired left knee without major setbacks. “I’m as confident as I’ve ever been with the knee,” he noted. The former MVP also revealed complications from his April appendectomy, which sidelined him for the final three regular-season games and the first three playoff contests. “Coming back early, the core was weak … jumping right to playoff basketball, that was tough,” he said, adding that lingering hip and adductor issues were tied to the surgery.
Asked about his place in NBA history, Embiid replied, “I want to win more than anyone. I haven’t won anything, so that hurts. But to go home and raise my son, raise my daughter, look at my wife in the eyes and understand I’m a good man—really, that’s all that matters.”
Praise for rookie VJ Edgecombe
Head coach Nick Nurse and Embiid both lauded 19-year-old guard VJ Edgecombe, the No. 3 pick in last year’s draft. “That was a hell of an impressive rookie season,” Nurse said. “He really knows how to play … he’s a big-time winner.” Embiid added that Edgecombe “has a chance to be extremely special” and vowed to help him grow.
Oubre eyes free agency
Veteran forward Kelly Oubre Jr., who will enter unrestricted free agency, said he hopes his improved efficiency in Philadelphia boosts his market. “I’ve averaged 20 points in this league and still find myself barely getting any contracts,” Oubre said. “Somewhere where I’m loved, somewhere where my family can be comfortable … I just want my kids to have somewhere they can call home.”
Maxey on hostile home crowd
All-Star guard Tyrese Maxey expressed frustration after Knicks fans dominated the atmosphere in Philadelphia’s arena. “It absolutely sucks,” he said. “There’s only one way to put a stop to it: we have to go out there and win these games.”
Source: Hoops Rumors
