Key member of Philadelphia 76ers calls out NBA champions

The Philadelphia 76ers are ready to battle against the Boston Celtics for a spot in the NBA Finals.

Their confidence is higher than ever, largely due to the additions of Paul George, Caleb Martin, Jared McCain, and more. It’s largely a matter of Joel Embiid’s health that will determine the outcome, but the threat is there.

Sixers team president Daryl Morey is sending a bold message to the reigning champions.

“We’re right there in that conversation with a very small number of teams,” Morey said on 97.5 The Fanatic. “Obviously you’ve got to give the Celtics their credit, they won the title. They’re the target. We’re going to be coming to take the title away from them.”

The bad news for Philadelphia is the Celtics were able to retain their entire roster, including new contracts for Derrick White and Sam Hauser. White and Jrue Holiday are the most feared defensive backcourt in the league, earning numerous All-Defensive Team selections. The Sixers guard room is piled with depth, meaning tiring out Boston's tandem will be the best strategy in a seven-game series.

Alternatively, Philadelphia has the best player on the court in Embiid. He averaged 34.7 points and 11 rebounds on 54.7% shooting last season but appeared in just 39 games. The issue is the superstar big man can only be in the debate for NBA’s best player when healthy.

The signing of George should ease pressure off his shoulders during the regular season, providing more success in the playoffs. By no means is the former Los Angeles Clipper an 'Ironman', like star Mikal Bridges, but his presence can only benefit Embiid's health.