The Philadelphia 76ers are at an important point in what has been a long and grueling rebuild. Under new management and with a bevy of draft picks joining an already talented if unproven roster, this season may be the one where the Sixers take a step forward.
Among the most exciting things for Philadelphia is that they may finally get a look at the third overall pick from two seasons ago. Joel Embiid, the center out of Kansas, is billed to make his NBA debut this season after battling injuries since he was drafted.
However, while excitement is high about the high-ceiling center, it appears Philly may need to wait just a bit longer before getting a look at a potential franchise building block:
Bryan Colangelo clarifies Embiid speculation: "He will not play summer league basketball, but he will be in Las Vegas with the team."
— charlie widdoes (@charliewiddoes) June 13, 2016
This is obviously a bit disappointing for the Sixers and their fans. With a logjam at the four and five spots, management needs all the time possible to evaluate their best options before deciding on some trades, which the team is reportedly looking at. With news that Dario Saric may not be coming to the NBA yet, after all, the Sixers may not get a look at all of their power forwards and centers quite yet.
That said, this could easily be, and probably is, a case of being extra cautious. A big man with a history of foot problems, there is no use for Embiid to play more games than necessary, especially as he rounds into game form.
