NBA analyst comments on the Philadelphia 76ers center following a lackluster performance in Team USA’s Olympic opener.
Every player on Team USA is sure to draw considerable media attention, as most are key players for their NBA teams. While many of the superstars frequently cycle in and out of the starting lineup, Joel Embiid is one of the few, along with LeBron James and Stephen Curry, who has consistently been trusted by Coach Steve Kerr to be a regular in the starting five.
Following the seven-time All-Star’s disappointing performance in the five exhibition games, where he averaged 10.4 points, many expected the Philadelphia 76ers would showcase his potential in the Paris Olympic Games. However, he managed only four points against Serbia in the team’s opening match.
This unimpressive performance led Colin Cowherd to criticize Embiid for winning the MVP award over Nikola Jokic and to remind fans that ‘Troel’ does not belong in the same elite big-man category as The Joker.
On his show, the 60-year-old analyst harshly criticized the 7’0″ center following his four-point, two-rebound game against Serbia. Colin found it particularly troubling that JoJo did not earn Coach Kerr’s trust, especially after accumulating more turnovers than steals, blocks, and assists, and only playing 11 minutes against his rival.
Cowherd highlighted that Jokic managed to score 20 points, provide eight assists, and grab five rebounds in 31 minutes for his national team, demonstrating that the three-time MVP does not require additional support to excel. In contrast, he suggested that Embiid won his MVP award because the media preferred a ‘cool story’ over awarding Jokic a third consecutive MVP title.
Cowherd criticized Embiid for being the most overhyped and coddled player in the NBA, noting that he was pulled from the game against Serbia just two minutes in. He argued that Jokic and Embiid are not comparable in terms of skill and level of play, and claimed that Embiid’s presence on the court negatively impacted Team USA’s performance and momentum.
Cowherd also pointed out that Embiid’s playing style, which relies heavily on drawing fouls and shooting free throws, does not suit the FIBA rules, which call fewer fouls. He asserted that without the ability to exploit these aspects of his game, Embiid is not only ineffective but detrimental to the team.
Despite the harsh critique, it underscores the frustration fans feel towards Embiid’s underwhelming performance. For Embiid to address his critics and secure his place in the starting lineup, he needs to deliver a standout performance against South Sudan. If his current level of play continues, it is unlikely he will remain in the starting five for much longer.
