Sixers’ Struggles Continue: Rookie McCain Shines as Embiid’s Knee Issues Persist
In an increasingly challenging season for the Philadelphia 76ers, a ray of hope emerged Friday night as rookie sensation Jared McCain led the team to a much-needed 113-98 victory over the Brooklyn Nets. However, the win was overshadowed by more concerning news about franchise cornerstone Joel Embiid’s ongoing knee problems.
Now holding a disappointing 3-12 record, the Sixers received another setback when the team announced that Embiid is dealing with swelling in his left knee. The former MVP will miss Sunday’s game against the Los Angeles Clippers, marking his 12th absence in just 15 games this season. The team says Embiid is receiving treatment, with updates expected next week.
In Embiid’s absence, McCain has significantly stepped into the spotlight. The 16th overall pick in the 2024 draft delivered another outstanding performance, scoring 30 points while shooting an impressive 11-of-20 from the field. The rookie has been breaking records left and right, including:
- Setting the NBA record for most three-pointers (26) in a player’s first five starts
- Breaking Allen Iverson’s Sixers record for most three-pointers (37) through 15 career games
- Becoming the first rookie to make at least three three-pointers in eight straight games
Returning from his hamstring injury, Tyrese Maxey showed flashes of his explosive potential, working with McCain to seal the victory. The duo’s chemistry was evident as they took turns breaking down Brooklyn’s defense in the fourth quarter.
The Sixers’ injury woes extend beyond Embiid, as Paul George remains sidelined with a left knee bone bruise. The team’s hoped-for “Big Three” of Embiid, George, and Maxey have shared the court for just three quarters this season, contributing to Philadelphia’s early-season struggles.
Head coach Nick Nurse addressed Embiid’s situation after the game: “It’s something we knew we’d be dealing with going into the season. The medical team is working to reduce the swelling, but he wasn’t ready to go tonight.”
The timing of Embiid’s knee issues raises questions about his $193 million contract signed before training camp. The 30-year-old center, who helped Team USA win gold at the Paris Olympics, skipped the entire preseason and has struggled to maintain consistent availability.
The Sixers face a challenging stretch with games against James Harden’s Los Angeles Clippers on Sunday and the rising Houston Rockets on Wednesday. While McCain’s emergence provides hope for the future, the team’s success ultimately hinges on Embiid’s health and availability.
For now, Philadelphia finds itself at a crossroads – celebrating the unexpected rise of a rookie star while grappling with concerns about their franchise player’s long-term durability. As the season progresses, the Sixers’ ability to navigate these challenges will likely determine their fate in an increasingly competitive Eastern Conference.