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“Seems Salty That Harden Is There”: James Harden Coming Under Fire After Critical Joel Embiid Take Has 76ers Fans Anxious

Published 11/08/2022, 7:10 AM EST

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USA Today via Reuters

Last season, the fans of the Philadelphia 76ers rose in hope. A potential championship duo was born.  Two MVP-worthy players, Joel Embiid and James Harden joined forces after a blockbuster deal sending away Ben Simmons. While injuries came in the first time around, the offseason further showed Philly as a true competitor. The Beard entered in the best shape of his life while Embiid came off a stellar season. However, it seems there is trouble in paradise. Notably, an NBA journalist’s concerning take on Embiid left the fans in worry.

For the past couple of seasons, Embiid has risen as the pride of the Sixers. The 28-year-old took his game to new heights last season. Winning his first scoring title and finishing as a runner-up for MVP, the Cameroonian displayed his full power. However, the start of the 2023 season was slow for him. Dealing with a sickness and foot injury, he and James Harden didn’t look as effective as they once were.

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While several reasons curbed Embiid from bursting out, Philadelphia Inquirer journalist, Keith Pompey saw an alarming body language when Harden and Embiid shared the court.

Joel Embiid and James Harden not seeing eye to eye

After a season where he made scoring look easy, Embiid came out with just 15 points in a loss to the Milwaukee Bucks in the season opener. Many fans were left concerned watching their biggest star struggle. However, it was later that Doc Rivers revealed a foot surgery that affected the 28-year-old’s conditioning. However, even after his offensive step up, there seemed to be a hunch in his approach. And according to Pompey, it is because of James Harden.

“Season Over”: NBA Fans Left in ‘Shambles’ After Massive James Harden Setback for 76ers

He said: “He’s mostly been out of sync and had poor body language while playing alongside Harden this season.”. These words hit Sixers fans like kryptonite. They were distraught as they attacked both their superstars for this debacle.

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James Harden used the off-season to display his hunger to win alongside Joel Embiid. Taking a massive pay cut and even getting in shape, the Beard looked ready for a big season. However, similar issues seem to have crossed his paths yet again. Notably, many fans think he heavily stays with the ball and is running the Philadelphia offensive ineffective. Having one of the most lethal big men by your side, Harden is probably failing to incorporate Embiid into the system.

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On the other hand, the followers also questioned the reigning scoring champion’s unwillingness to play alongside a star player. The 28-year-old might not be ready to share the keys to the kingdom. Moreover, the Beard is probably taking too much time on the ball. However, if there is a championship to come in Philly, they will need their two superstars to be on the same page.

There is serious potential for Joel Embiid and Harden to become one of the most ruthless one-two-punch in the NBA. Add in Tyrese Maxey’s insane improvement, and the Philadelphia 76ers probably have the dream foundation to take the big leap.

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Watch the Story – NBA players Kevin Durant Joel Embiid others share their opinion about the new Wilson basketball

Do you think Joel Embiid and James Harden will figure things out once the Beard makes his return? Let us know your views in the comments below.

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Written by:

Anuj Talwalkar

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Anuj Talwalkar is an NBA writer at EssentiallySports. He is a student studying at NM College in Mumbai, aspiring to pursue sports management to follow his love for sports. Anuj started following the NBA last year, and he loves to combine his passion for writing with his understanding of basketball.
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