Max Kellerman dropped a bomb on LeBron’s agent, Rich Paul. Amid all the buzz about the Philadelphia 76ers adding LeBron James and Jaylen Brown this offseason, Kellerman went right for the jugular, pitching a trade for former MVP Joel Embiid on the *Game Over* podcast. It’s a wild idea, especially with all the new talent in Philly.
Kellerman’s Bold Pitch and Paul’s Cold Shoulder
Kellerman isn’t pulling any punches, straight up saying he doesn’t think the Sixers can keep Embiid. He called Embiid a “victim of his own excellence” because of how tough it is to integrate him back into the offense after his inevitable injury absences. “Every year of his career, it’s always something else,” Kellerman said, arguing the Sixers should move him. But Rich Paul wasn’t having it. He pushed back, explaining that in the playoffs, you need mismatches, and a healthy Embiid is absolutely a mismatch every single night. The problem? That “healthy in the playoffs” part is a massive “if” for Embiid.
The Numbers Don’t Lie on Embiid’s Availability
Look at the numbers: Embiid has missed at least one playoff game in five of the past nine seasons where Philadelphia made the postseason. He’s only played 96 regular-season games in the last three years! When he *is* on the floor in the playoffs, he’s a monster, averaging 24.8 points, 10.5 rebounds, and 3.3 assists in 66 starts. Now, with LeBron and Brown, the Sixers are looking at four ball-dominant starters. Embiid was apparently heavily involved in recruiting James, so the team isn’t making any big moves *before* the season starts. This new depth means they don’t have to lean so hard on Embiid for regular season success. But if things get awkward with all those players needing the ball? An in-season move wouldn’t be a shock.
That Contract Is a Monster Problem
Here’s the kicker though: Embiid’s age and injury history make him the logical trade piece if the Sixers decide to shake things up, but his contract is a serious problem. He’s owed around $120 million over the next two seasons, PLUS a $67.3 million player option for 2028-29. That’s a huge commitment that could make finding a trade partner nearly impossible. The Sixers are saying they’ll see how this superteam plays out, but you gotta wonder if that money and Embiid’s history are too much to ignore if they hit any bumps. This team is gonna be wild to watch.
This article was created with AI assistance and published under Seattle On Tap’s editorial standards. See our Editorial Policy.
Originally reported by Bleacher Report.
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