If the Knicks were hoping to see Joel Embiid move on from the Philadelphia 76ers anytime soon, they’ll have to rethink that. On Friday morning, the 76ers secured Embiid with a new three-year, $193 million maximum extension, which includes a player option for the 2028–29 season.
This massive contract will pay Embiid $59.5 million in the first year, increasing to $64.3 million and then $69 million in the final year. As one of the top players in basketball, the 76ers clearly believe he’s worth every dollar of the deal.
Embiid’s Stellar 2024 Campaign
This past year, despite playing just 39 regular-season games, Joel Embiid’s impact was undeniable. He averaged 34.7 points, 11 rebounds, and 5.6 assists per game, shooting 52.9% from the field. While injuries cut his season short, Embiid had previously played at least 66 games in the prior season, cementing his status as a dominant force.
On April 30, 2024, during Game 5 of the first round of the playoffs, Embiid faced the New York Knicks at Madison Square Garden, despite battling injuries. He still posted impressive numbers, averaging 33 points, 10.8 rebounds, and 5.7 assists over six games, playing 41.3 minutes per contest. However, the 76ers were eventually eliminated from the postseason.
Paul George Joins the 76ers as Key Addition
This off-season, the 76ers made some big changes to their team. They added Paul George to their squad while parting ways with Tobias Harris. George, who played for a Clippers team that struggled in the postseason, will be the main third scorer for the 76ers. The 34-year-old made the All-Star team and played 74 games last season, which is his highest total since 2018. With 5.2 rebounds, 3.5 assists, and 22.6 points per game on average.George’s signing strengthens the 76ers’ squad, making them a tough opponent for any club in the league.
Knicks’ Defensive Reinforcements
In response to the growing strength of teams like the 76ers, the Knicks made significant defensive upgrades this offseason. They extended OG Anunoby with a lucrative contract worth $42 million per season and acquired Mikal Bridges to bolster their defense as another elite wing defender. These moves were strategic, aimed at countering the offensive firepower of teams led by stars like Joel Embiid, ensuring the Knicks have the defensive tools to compete with the league’s top contenders.
Knicks’ Center Depth Concerns
While the Knicks have bolstered their perimeter defense, concerns remain at the center position. Julius Randle isn’t a viable long-term option at the five, particularly if the team expects him to endure a full season in that role. Meanwhile, starting center Mitchell Robinson is projected to miss most, if not all, of training camp, adding to the uncertainty.
President Leon Rose and the Knicks’ front office have taken a patient and calculated approach to addressing this need. However, the lack of depth at center is becoming an increasingly apparent weakness that could hinder the team as the season progresses.
The Road Ahead for the Knicks
With the 76ers continuing to build around Joel Embiid and the addition of Paul George, the Knicks are tasked with staying competitive in a challenging Eastern Conference. While the Knicks have strengthened their defense, addressing the lack of depth at the center position will be vital if they hope to contend with powerhouses like the 76ers in the playoffs.
For now, the Knicks’ focus is on maximizing the potential of their current roster. The upcoming months will be critical in determining whether the team is truly ready to make a championship push.
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