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What Does Daryl Morey’s Arrival at the Philadelphia 76ers Mean for Joel Embiid and Ben Simmons?

Published 11/03/2020, 1:00 AM EST

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After failing in the playoffs once again, many feared it was the end for Philadelphia 76ers duo Joel Embiid and Ben Simmons. But after vast changes in the coaching staff and the front office, it looks like they might stick around for some more time.

New GM Daryl Morey has clarified that both of them are key for the 76ers. He has no doubts about their chemistry together. “I absolutely think they can work together,” Morey said. “He (Embiid) wants to win a championship. He’s a smart player who knows you only have so many opportunities. Frankly, I’m excited to go on this journey with Joel and Ben going forward.”

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The Philadelphia 76ers will not be like the Houston Rockets

Simmons has struggled with three-pointers throughout his career. He has often looked scared to take an attempt, and that has been a big hole in his game. Embiid has also been below average with outside shooting. Since Morey just came from Houston, the team, whose only strategy was to shoot threes, thought Simmons wouldn’t fit in Morey’s team.

“The goal is not to shoot 3-pointers, the goal is to win,” Morey said. “You can score on offense in a whole bunch of different ways. Joel happens to be one of the most efficient post-up players in the league.”

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This is Joel Embiid’s team

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In his time in the NBA, Morey has never had a big man as talented as Embiid. The 7’2 Cameroonian can shoot, post up, and protect the paint too. There is no question about the talent, but his ability to stay healthy has been the issue. But Morey is excited about this team up, and judging by the way he spoke about Embiid, it is going to be his team.

Morey said, “When Joel is on the floor and healthy, (and he’s been here twice a day for quite a while. He’s very focused and motivated) this is an unbelievable defensive team. He’s also an extremely good offensive player. Joel’s the kind of player you win championships with if you look back through NBA history.”

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Now in their fourth season together, all eyes will be on how coach Doc Rivers gets the best out of Embiid and Simmons. Both are gifted players who have the potential to be winners, but they need to stay fit and consistent.

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Written by:

Aaron Mathew

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Aaron Mathew is a sports analyst at EssentiallySports. A graduate in Mass Media from Xavier’s College, Aaron has been a part of EssentiallySports since May 2020 where he covers both NBA and NCAA basketball news, and has also covered NBA 2K. In the past, Aaron has worked at the Sports Desk of Mumbai Mirror.
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