Nearly for his entire NBA career, Joel Embiid has been used to being the focal point for the 76ers. But through six games with the new-look, LeBron James-led squad, Embiid has found himself taking somewhat of a step back.
That hasn't necessarily been a surprise for Embiid. But he admitted that it has been an adjustment.
Speaking to reporters after the Sixers' blowout win against the Bulls, Embiid was asked about his decreased usage. When there's a roster that includes Jaylen Brown, LeBron, Tyrese Maxey and VJ Edgecombe, there are only so many shots to go around.
And thus far, Embiid is averaging just 15.2 field goal attempts per game, which is his lowest average since his rookie season. He admitted to reporters that he's used to having the ball
more than he has so far this season. (Note: Expand tweet for full text)
Joel Embiid with an extended answer on finding his role within the new-look Sixers.
— PHLY Sixers (@PHLY_Sixers) November 3, 2026
“For me it’s a little bit of an adjustment. I'm such a rhythm guy, and over the years, obviously, I've had a lot of opportunities to just touch the ball. You know, almost every every other… pic.twitter.com/bGVoFbOZvr
But if the Sixers keep winning, it's difficult to imagine Embiid truly having an issue with his role in the team. He's still seeing the floor for 33 minutes per game.
He's just not the guy. And he had to know that heading into the season.
This article originally appeared on For The Win: Joel Embiid voiced frustration with diminished role alongside LeBron James' Sixers
