Joel Embiid, a rare basketball talent, has recently faced significant criticism regarding his injury and recovery process, with some questioning his commitment to the game. Eddie Johnson, however, has come forward to challenge this view, suggesting that Embiid’s injuries are not a result of laziness but rather his intense style of play pushing his body beyond its limits.

Throughout his career, Embiid has contended with ongoing knee problems. Although he underwent surgery in 2024 that was expected to prevent further issues, he was forced to end his season prematurely in February, leading to another operation in April. Embiid managed only 19 games last season. The Philadelphia 76ers remain optimistic about his readiness for the upcoming training camp in two months, but concerns linger about the potential for additional setbacks.

Why Eddie Johnson Believes Embiid’s Effort Is Not the Problem

Contrary to some media narratives, Johnson rejects the idea that Embiid’s challenges stem from a lack of effort or desire. On a recent SiriusXM NBA Radio episode, Johnson explained that Embiid’s struggles are more related to how hard he pushes himself on the court. Johnson emphasized that Embiid is indeed playing with great intensity and commitment.

He plays hard. People can get on Embiid all they want, like, based on the shape that he’s in, the dude does play hard,

Johnson said.

He’s going to try to defend the rim, he’s going to try to do things, and I think that’s part of his issue.

—Eddie Johnson, Former Sixth Man of the Year

This level of exertion, Johnson argues, contributes to the physical toll on Embiid’s body, especially considering his size and weight. Standing over seven feet tall and weighing more than 280 pounds, Embiid faces unique challenges in maintaining his physical condition to avoid injury cycles that have repeatedly sidelined him and impacted the 76ers’ performance.

When you’re trying to play as hard as he does sometimes, and you’re out of shape, you’re gonna get injured,

Johnson added.

You’re gonna get injured when you’re trying to play hard. And I think that’s the realization he has to come to.

—Eddie Johnson, Former Sixth Man of the Year

Potential Paths Forward for Embiid’s Career

Embiid faces two main options as he looks ahead—either adjust his playing style to better suit his current physical condition or commit to improving his fitness level. The recent efforts of other NBA stars, like Luka Doncic, who has lost significant weight over the summer, provide a clear example of how physical transformation can lead to better on-court performance and injury prevention.

Reducing weight could lessen the strain on Embiid’s knees and increase his durability, allowing him to reclaim his position as one of the game‘s dominant forces. How he chooses to approach this challenge could define both his career longevity and his impact on the 76ers moving forward.

Uncertainty Surrounding Embiid’s Future in the NBA

The rarity of Embiid’s appearances on the court recently has led some to question whether he will continue playing at all. Despite frustration from fans and the criticism of rivals, it is essential to remember that Embiid is still a driven athlete striving to compete at the highest level. Whether his body will allow him to do so remains an open question.

Keith Pompey, a 76ers insider, recently suggested that Embiid might be nearing the end of his playing career. Speaking on SiriusXM NBA Radio, Pompey reflected on the pain Embiid has endured and what it might mean for his future.

I think Joel may know that the end is near,

Pompey remarked.

This is just me saying that. And it’s kind of explaining to people what he’s going through. Because rarely do you have a guy tell you how much pain and how much they’re going through,

—Keith Pompey, 76ers Insider

The prospect of an early retirement for a player of Embiid’s caliber would be a significant loss for the NBA community. Fans and teammates alike hope that he can overcome these physical setbacks, return to full health, and eventually deliver the kind of success in Philadelphia that many have long anticipated.