Oct 01, V7N - Joel Embiid, the Philadelphia 76ers' star center and reigning NBA Most Valuable Player, has made significant changes this offseason in hopes of achieving a healthier playoff run. At the team's preseason media day, Embiid revealed he has lost 25 to 30 pounds and is committed to further improving his physical condition.
 
A New Mindset for the SeasonEmbiid emphasized that his focus for the upcoming season is not on individual accolades such as All-Star or All-NBA selections, but rather on ensuring he is fully prepared for the playoffs. "This year is all about... whatever it takes to make sure that I get to that point where I'm ready to go," he stated, reflecting on his struggles with injuries in previous playoffs.Over the last several seasons, Embiid has faced multiple injuries, including a torn meniscus in his left knee during the 2023-24 regular season, which limited him to just 39 games.
 
Although he returned for the playoffs, he was not at his best, contributing to the 76ers' first-round exit against the New York Knicks.Commitment to Health and Team SuccessEmbiid, who ended last season listed at 280 pounds, sees his weight loss as a crucial step toward better health and performance. "I've still got a ways to go... as soon as we lost last year, I texted [President of Basketball Operations] Daryl Morey and said, ‘We've got to do whatever it takes to make sure that, in the postseason, I'm healthy,'" he shared.With the addition of Paul George, a star free agent forward, the 76ers are looking to bolster their title aspirations.
 
Morey highlighted the importance of managing Embiid's health throughout the season while maintaining a competitive edge. "We're going to be really smart about this... focused on April, May, June," he said, indicating a strategic approach to the season.Impressive Career StatisticsDespite his injury challenges, Embiid has consistently delivered impressive performances. Last season, he averaged 34.7 points, 11.0 rebounds, and 5.6 assists in limited action. He won the MVP award in the 2022-23 season with averages of 33.1 points, 10.2 rebounds, 4.2 assists, and 1.7 blocks per game.
 
Overall, since being drafted third overall by the 76ers in 2014, Embiid has averaged 27.9 points, 11.2 rebounds, and 3.6 assists in 433 games.As the 2024-25 season approaches, Embiid's commitment to health and performance could play a pivotal role in Philadelphia's quest for postseason success, a goal that has eluded the franchise since 2001.
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