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Slimmer Embiid Offers Hope as Sixers Slide to No. 19 in ESPN Outlook, Face Size and Health Questions

Fresh images of a slimmer Joel Embiid offer cautious optimism despite sinking projections.

Overview

  • Team-posted photos show Joel Embiid looking lean while working out, including earlier shooting without a knee brace, though signs suggest he has not been cleared for full contact.
  • ESPN’s Future Power Rankings placed Philadelphia 19th, with sharp drops in the players and management categories following last season’s injuries and uncertainty.
  • Jeff Teague said Paul George is “cooked” on the Club 520 podcast, echoing doubts after George’s July knee surgery and a 41-game 2024-25 season.
  • Analysts highlight a roster gap at power forward, with expectations the Sixers could start small by using George next to Embiid.
  • Restricted free agent Quentin Grimes remains unsigned yet is widely projected to return as the starting small forward alongside Tyrese Maxey, Jared McCain and rookie V. J. Edgecombe.