The Philadelphia 76ers haven’t been able to catch a break this season.
They’ve struggled with a plethora of injuries, and even though they play in the Eastern Conference, they might still not have enough time to turn things around.
On top of that, there has been a lot of talk regarding Joel Embiid.
The often-injured star was a talking point in a team meeting, and it seems like he’s rubbed some people the wrong way.
That’s why Stephen A. Smith didn’t waste an opportunity to give a scorching-hot take about him.
Talking on ESPN’s “First Take,” Smith went as far as to compare him with the out-of-favor Ben Simmons, stating that on top of the never-ending injuries, his demeanor and apparent disinterest reminds him of that of his former teammate (via ClutchPoints).
“Let me say this to Joel Embiid in all seriousness: You’re about a tad bit away from being compared to Ben Simmons. … You bring up the injuries and all of that stuff, I look at the disinterest on his face… the lack of enthusiasm.”
– Stephen A. Smithpic.twitter.com/s4tyDip8zV
— ClutchPoints (@ClutchPoints) December 17, 2024
Needless to say, it didn’t take long before some fans took offense at those comments.
poor take
— fubar11 (@fubarjunior) December 17, 2024
This man will say anything for clicks now🤦🏾♂️
— Ryan (@phillyking8) December 17, 2024
They need to take him off the air man smh he says dumbest sh ever
— MRGBS (@barbergiovanni) December 17, 2024
somebody broke his nose and we talking about disinterest, come on
— Kokukojuto (@KokuKojuto) December 17, 2024
Simmons is public enemy No. 1 in Philadelphia, and understandably so, so Sixers fans weren’t going to let that one slide.
Then again, as harsh as it might sound, he might not be that far off.
There have always been reports about Embiid’s eating habits and work ethic and not taking himself too seriously.
He’s often hurt and might not be fully healthy ever again.
Also, the Sixers have constantly gone out of their way to pair him with elite talent, and nothing has worked.
Embiid is a unique player and one of the most talented players of all time, and as such, he should be held to those standards.
NEXT: Stephen A. Smith Says 1 NBA Star Is Almost Comparable To Ben Simmons