Joel Embiid, the Philadelphia 76ers’ star center, has often been heralded as one of the most talented players in the NBA. However, his journey has been marred by injuries, misfortunes, and what many are now calling an “unlucky” career. The narrative surrounding Embiid’s time in the league has taken an unsettling turn, especially following the recent MVP announcement where Nikola Jokic took home the prestigious award for the second consecutive year. For Embiid, this latest disappointment adds to a long list of unfortunate events that have characterized his professional life.
Embiid’s path to the NBA was anything but conventional. He did not pick up a basketball until the age of 15, and by the time he arrived in the United States at 16, his prodigious talent was evident. Drafted by the 76ers as the third overall pick in 2014, expectations were high. Unfortunately, his career began with a series of injuries, including a stress fracture in his right foot that sidelined him for the entire first two seasons. Despite these setbacks, Embiid’s determination saw him return to the court in 2016, where he quickly showcased his elite skills.
However, Embiid’s misfortunes did not end there. Throughout his career, he has faced a barrage of injuries that have plagued not only his regular-season performance but also his playoff aspirations. For instance, a torn meniscus cut short his promising rookie season, and a series of injuries—including a concussion and an orbital bone fracture—have hindered his ability to perform at critical moments during the playoffs. His first healthy run came in the 2019-2020 season, only to be met with a humiliating first-round sweep by the Boston Celtics.
The 76ers’ front office decisions have compounded Embiid’s struggles. The franchise’s failure to surround him with effective talent—most notably the ill-fated selections of Markelle Fultz and Ben Simmons—has left him without the support necessary to make a championship run. The decision to let go of Jimmy Butler, a player Embiid had a strong rapport with, further deepened the sense of misalignment within the organization.
Despite these challenges, Embiid has continued to produce at an elite level, averaging 28.5 points and 11 rebounds in the 2020-2021 season. He emerged as a frontrunner for the MVP award, only to suffer yet another injury that derailed his chances. This pattern of near-success followed by injury has become all too familiar for the 29-year-old. Each postseason has seen him confronted with the specter of health issues, leaving fans and analysts questioning whether he will ever reach the pinnacle of success.
The emotional toll of these experiences is evident. Following heartbreaking playoff exits, including a stunning loss to the Atlanta Hawks in 2021, Embiid has openly expressed his frustration at the series of unfortunate events that have shaped his career. His resilience, however, remains a testament to his character and love for the game.
As the Philadelphia 76ers continue to navigate their way through the challenges of building a championship-contending team, Joel Embiid stands as both a beacon of hope and a symbol of unfulfilled potential. With the question of whether he can break the curse of unluckiness looming over him, the NBA community watches closely, wondering if the tide will finally turn in his favor. The narrative of Embiid’s career is not just about the accolades or the injuries; it is a complex tale of perseverance amidst adversity, one that continues to unfold with each passing season.