Joel Embiid is one of the most dominant big men of his generation. But now, his legacy is under serious threat.
The Philadelphia 76ers missed the 2025 NBA Playoffs. Embiid’s season ended in disappointment, raising major questions about his future.
A Season That Fell Short of Expectations
Embiid entered the 2024–25 campaign with high hopes. He won the 2023 NBA MVP award and was solid in 2023-24, too. The favourite for MVP this season is Shai Gilgeous-Alexander (2.75). Fans and analysts alike could be forgiven if they expected him to lead the 76ers deep into the postseason.
However, injuries and inconsistent form derailed the season. Despite flashes of brilliance, Embiid failed to produce consistently, and the 76ers crashed out before the postseason even began.
This failure has led to widespread criticism. Many feel the Sixers wasted another year of Embiid’s prime. Once again, the franchise fell short of its championship goals.
Injuries and the Ageing Curve
At 31, Joel Embiid is no longer a rising star. He is now a veteran whose body has taken years of punishment. His injury history is extensive and troubling.
Throughout the 2024–25 season, he struggled with injuries and indiscipline. These problems kept him out of key games. Even when on the court, he lacked his usual dominance.
In the NBA, time waits for no one. As Embiid ages, the chances of him carrying a team to a title become slimmer. The window is closing fast, and each setback makes it harder to stay in contention.
Greatness Without a Ring
Joel Embiid will always be remembered as an elite player. His combination of size, skill, and agility is rare in modern basketball. He has multiple All-Star appearances and an MVP trophy to show for it.
But in the NBA, greatness is often measured by championships. Without a ring, Embiid’s legacy remains incomplete. He may be viewed as one of the best players of his era, but not among the all-time greats.
For comparison, players like Tim Duncan and Shaquille O’Neal are celebrated not just for their stats but for their titles. Embiid, despite similar talent, risks being seen more like Charles Barkley or Karl Malone—phenomenal, but not immortal.
The Future With or Without Philadelphia
Now, Embiid faces a tough choice. Stay loyal to the 76ers or seek a new path elsewhere. The franchise has built around him for years, but it hasn’t delivered the ultimate prize. However, leaving Philadelphia would not be easy. It’s the only NBA home he’s ever known. The fans have embraced him, and he is the face of the franchise.
Still, Embiid must weigh sentiment against success. If he truly wants to compete for a championship before retirement, change may be necessary.
What This Means for the NBA Landscape
Joel Embiid’s next move could shake up the entire NBA. If he requests a trade, the balance of power could shift overnight. Top contenders may try to move key pieces just to make room for him.
This would have big implications for online sports betting markets. Odds would swing dramatically based on Embiid’s destination. A title contender could become a favourite overnight.
At the same time, the 76ers would enter a rebuilding phase. They would likely seek young talent and draft picks in return. This could reshape the Eastern Conference for years to come.
Conclusion: Time Is Running Out
Joel Embiid has done almost everything an NBA star can do. But the one thing missing is a championship ring. Without it, his story feels unfinished.
He’s at a crossroads now. The decisions he makes in the coming months will define his legacy. Whether he stays or goes, the pressure is on.
Embiid’s talent has never been in doubt. But greatness in the NBA is about timing, health, and team success. At 31, with injuries mounting, the clock is ticking.
