The Damian Lillard trade to the Milwaukee Bucks has changed the entire dynamics of the NBA Eastern Conference. There are now two big teams, the Milwaukee Bucks and the Boston Celtics, ready to challenge for the NBA title next year. Amid all such movement, one disgruntled star is yet to recieve his desired trade. It is none other than James Harden. The 2018 MVP skipped the Philadelphia 76ers Media Day which has raised eyebrows.

In his absence, 2023 MVP Joel Embiid has been trying to rally his troops. While answering a question, the Cameroonian made a controversial claim which has sent the NBA world into a frenzy.

Joel Embiid answers questions on James Harden and the Celtics

Over the past few days, the Celtics and the Bucks have emerged as clear favorites to challenge for the NBA title from the East. This has left teams like the Philadelphia 76ers and the Miami Heat behind.

During the 76ers Media Day, a journalist asked Embiid a question which received a very interesting answer. He asked the 2023 NBA MVP whether the Celtics and the Bucks being better than the 76ers trouble him.

?Who said they surpassed us??, said the 7-foot-tall star. Not only this, but Embiid also offered some clarity on the James Harden controversy.

The 10-time NBA All-Star refused to turn up to the 76ers Media Day. With training camp coming up in a few days time, it looks like he is in no mood to turn up there as well.

?If he’s here, great. We’d love to have him. If not, we’ve still got a job to do”, said Embiid according to US News. The 76ers President Daryl Morey confirmed that Harden is looking for a trade away from the team. Interestingly, The Beard had called Morey a ‘liar’ in China a few weeks ago during an Adidas event.

What did the NBA world have to say about Embiid’s statement?

Joel Embiid’s statement about the Celtics and the Bucks definitely didn’t sit well with NBA fans on Instagram. Some of them also speculated on some wild trade rumors involving the reigning MVP!?

READ MORE: ?This One Hurt?: Hours After Celtics? Shocking Jrue Holiday Acquisition, Jayson Tatum Bids Farewell to 25YO ?Dawg 4L? Teammate

Here are some of the reactions.

“He demanding a trade soon.”

“Embiid to the Warriors”

A majority of the fans called out Embiid for his statements.

“Buddy Tatum is 3-0 against u in the playoffs and this is his best team yet, figure out how to surpass the 2nd round”

“Bro did we not get blown out by THE CELTICS in game 7??? This is why I?m sick of this team smh”

One fan argued that the Celtics and Bucks were better than the 76ers even before acquiring Damian Lillard and Jrue Holiday.

“Brother they?ve already surpassed you prior to all these trades”

“the celtics pass y?all every year my guy”

WATCH THIS STORY: Jimmy Butler Accuses Damian Lillard of Tampering After Giannis Antetokounmpo Betrayal: ?You Didn?t Hear?It?From?Me?

What are your thoughts on Joel Embiid’s statements? Let us know in the comments below.