Joel Embiid facing backlash for petty comments on Jayson Tatum

Embiid essentially discredited Tatum's first NBA title by suggesting that he, too, would have a championship ring if he had the right pieces supporting him. That is rather petty on his part, considering he has been paired up with likely future Hall of Famers such as Jimmy Butler and James Harden in the past and continues to play with quality co-stars such as Tyrese Maxey and soon-to-be teammate Paul George.  

Objectively, it's inarguable that Tatum had a superior supporting cast to that of Embiid last season — and perhaps even in prior years. But Embiid comes across as a spoilsport with such an admission, especially since his Sixers have failed to get past the conference semifinals in his eight-year tenure with the organization.  

The harsh reality for Embiid is that he has been an underwhelming performer in the playoffs. The injuries and poor conditioning excuses are valid, but it's easy to forget that Embiid had a forgettable 2023 playoff run which ended with him shooting 5-of-18 from the field in a Game 7 loss to the Celtics.  

With the Sixers landing George and re-signing Maxey, Embiid has a legitimate super-team to rely upon next season. It's put up or shut up time for the skilled 7-footer.