"The beginning of the most scrutinized stretch of Joel Embiid's NBA career" - NBA analyst says the 76ers star has had enough of excuses

Coach Steve Kerr's decision to include Joel Embiid in Team USA's starting lineup despite him averaging 10.4 points over the five exhibition games showcased how he trusted the Philadelphia 76ers to have a great impact for his country. However, the 2023 MVP failed to stand tall on that faith as he logged merely four points and more turnovers than assists, blocks, and steals in the opening encounter against Serbia, after which he was notably sidelined for the second game against South Sudan.

While this decision might seem severe, Chris Broussard asserted that the seven-time All-Star has indeed underperformed on the international stage.

Broussard sounds off on Embiid

Speaking on 'First Things First,' Broussard emphasized that 'Troel's' disappointing showing for Team USA has now eroded public sympathy. Historically, various factors - be it Ben Simmons, James Harden, or coach Doc Rivers - were held accountable for the 76ers' playoff shortcomings. However, the 55-year-old NBA analyst contended that Embiid's subpar performance, even when surrounded by elite talent, has only highlighted his knack for underperforming on the biggest stage.

Consequently, Chris suggested that NBA fans may now be less inclined to offer Joel further 'excuses' if they fail to achieve success in the postseason, especially after the arrival of Paul George in Philly.

"He looks bad. He does look bad. I think This is the beginning of what will be the most scrutinized stretch of Joel Embiid's NBA career. People are going to be like, 'No more excuses,'" Broussard said. "For a guy that has won the MVP and has never been past the second round, in a down Eastern Conference for the most part,... Embiid has gotten a pass, and I think that is over."

Pressure is high on Joel more than ever

Broussard may have raised a valid point. Despite Embiid logging near double-doubles averages in the last three playoff series - averaging 19.8 points and 9.8 rebounds in the 2022 second round against the Miami Heat, 25.5 points and nine rebounds in the 2023 second round against the Boston Celtics, and 33 points and 10.8 rebounds in the 2024 first round against the New York Knicks - his performance has been hindered by injuries, limited minutes, or an inability to establish himself as the best player in the series.

Perhaps this could explain why the 76ers have not progressed past the second round in the past seven seasons. That being said, now that PG13 has joined him and Tyrese Maxey, the pressure is on JoJo to deliver with the desired supporting cast.

Related: "He literally got in the way of the offense" - Colin Cowherd explains how Joel Embiid hinders Team USA