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76ers Make Final Call on Blockbuster Joel Embiid Trade: Report

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Reign Amurao | Last updated Jun 19, 2025 10:00 PM ET

Ahead of the 2025 NBA draft, there have been rumors about what the Philadelphia 76ers should do with Joel Embiid. There have been suggestions that the 76ers should trade the All-Star. Given the injuries he's sustained over the past seasons, many believe it's best to move on from the 2023 MVP.

Last season, Embiid dealt with knee issues, which prevented him from being available for the 76ers. He appeared in 19 games, averaging 23.8 points, 8.2 rebounds and 4.5 assists. When healthy, the seven-time All-Star is the team's leader and can be unstoppable on the floor.

However, Embiid's health has been a problem, which has led to various trade rumors.

On Thursday, NBA insider Marc Stein reported that the 76ers are not planning on moving Embiid. According to Stein, they're willing to give the star big man a chance to run it back with Paul George and Tyrese Maxey.

"By simply staying at No. 3, Philadelphia would introduce an $11.1 million salary onto its books for 2025-26," Stein wrote.

"So the Sixers expect to operate near (or maybe even above) the second apron for this upcoming campaign, sources say, as they prepare to give Joel Embiid, Paul George and Tyrese Maxey another shot to try to contend for a championship after they managed to appear in just 15 games (7-8) together this season."

The 76ers' star trio didn't get the full opportunity last season because of injuries. Aside from Embiid, Paul George was also limited because of a knee issue. He appeared in 41 games and was shut down by the team after the All-Star break. Tyrese Maxey was also shut down by the 76ers after playing 52 games.

The 76ers are confident the group will recover well, given the extended time away from action.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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