The first star to spark controversy among fans and ** for missing a game this season is Embiid. As of January 31, Beijing time, Embiid returned in the Warriors' game against the 76ers, marking his absence from a full 12 games. However, to stand out in the competition for MVP or Team of the Year, he can only miss up to five more games this season. This news has undoubtedly sparked heated discussions among fans and **.
But why is Embiid's absence controversial? The story begins with a game three days ago, when the 76ers lost 105-111 to the Nuggets. Fifteen minutes before the start of the game, Embiid was suddenly included in the injury list. The move caught the attention of NBA officials, who have stepped in to investigate whether Embiid's actions violated the league's rotation policy.
Although Nuggets coach Malone expressed support for the league's investigation, saying, "I believe Embiid is injured, but I hope the league can investigate how he was suddenly absent after activating the roster before the game." ESPN's Ramona Shelburne explained on a show: "Embiid himself didn't want to be on the injury list, but he found he couldn't jump during the pre-game warm-up. ”
It's clear that Ramona Shelburne's source could be from the 76ers or Embiid's team. At this time, 76ers coach Nas also said: "Embiid really wants to play, but the team doctor doesn't allow it, which is really bad for those fans who come to watch the game." Naturally, the Nuggets' home fans won't let Embiid go, and they taunt him by waving "missing person notices."
Embiid, known for his "belief in process," reads on this "missing person poster", and his legend is not just about his performance on the court. Although he doesn't have multiple MVPs and multiple All-Star starters, his name has become a legend in basketball circles. He is tall and last seen in Denver in the distant year 2019. Yes, from then until 2024, Embiid has missed the away game against the Nuggets for 5 consecutive years. This series of absences has caused many fans to question: In the past five years, is it because of injuries every time?
For those fans who bought tickets to enter the stadium, many came for the matchup between Jokic and Embiid. However, if Embiid can't play, maybe some people won't be so eager to buy tickets, which will also lead to lower ticket prices. As a result, many Nuggets fans began to ridicule Embiid, not only because of his competition with Jokic in the MVP, but also because he seemed to be "on the run".
Even on the sidelines, Embiid was not idle. He hit back at the Nuggets fans with a gesture, as if to challenge them. Such a confrontation can be regarded as a complete tie. Talking about whether he can win a second MVP again, Embiid admitted: "I already have an MVP. If I get a chance to get a second one, I'll go for it, but I'm not going to push myself. ”
To date, Embiid has played in 33 games. Averaged 34 games per game2 minutes, averaging 36 points per game.114 rebounds 58 assists 11 steal 18 caps 36 mistakes. The three-point shooting percentage was 539%，36.8% and 883%。In the scoring charts, he is firmly in first place. It ranked sixth and tenth in the rebounding and blocking charts, respectively. In terms of net efficiency, his 112 ranked sixth in the league. And in terms of game contribution value, his 232 is the first in the league!
Embiid has set a record of 22 consecutive games to score 30+ games, which is firmly in fifth place in NBA history. His next goal is to catch up with Chamberlain's mythical record, who once hit 30+ in 65 consecutive games, becoming the all-time first. On this list, Harden is a close second, with 32 consecutive 30+ games putting him second all-time. In addition, the 76ers are currently in third place in the East. If Embiid can stay on the playing list for more than 65 games, he could be crowned MVP again.
However, Embiid's absence this time has sparked widespread discussion and concern. There are different opinions and perspectives on this. Some believe that his absence could affect the team's record and overall performance; Others, however, may be understanding and supportive, believing that occasional breaks are essential for an athlete's body and condition. In any case, Embiid's every move is in the spotlight, and his form and performance will directly affect the fate of the team.