Trade & Free Agency 2026/2027

[HoosierDaddyKid]

Joel Embiid played 38 games in 2025-26, and he has averaged just 32 across the past three seasons. Among the executives who placed Philadelphia in the top four, all acknowledged the risk in betting on a top-heavy group and one so reliant on a player who needs to be managed delicately to make it to the postseason. "I don't trust Embiid. On paper, they should be top four. On paper," an executive said. "Jaylen Brown brings them a level of toughness Boston's going to miss. He brings them an edge." Another top decision-maker believes the acquisition of Brown lessens Philadelphia's dependency on Embiid, saying, "He only has to play 40 games because of JB and their great backcourt."

ESPN