Joel Embiid has appeared like a shadow of himself in the first two games of the season, having been held back by minutes restrictions. After the Philadelphia76ers' 125-121 win against the Charlotte Hornets on Saturday, Embiid expressed disappointment with his minutes.
As per Embiid, he would prefer going back home and spending time with his family rather than play in short bursts.
"The longer I sit, the shorter stints, you play 2-3 minutes, and you got to get out, that is really nothing," he said. "I might as well just stay home and be with my family. Longer stints, you're able to let the game come to you... I trust them until I'm over it."
Embiid played 20 minutes in both of the 76ers' games so far this season. Against the Boston Celtics in the season's opening game, Embiid registered only four points, shooting 1-of-9 from the field, while also getting six rebounds and dishing out two assists.
Against the Hornets, Embiid put up 20 points on a more efficient 7-of-11 shooting from the field, two rebounds, and four assists.
Embiid has struggled with various knee injuries throughout his career, prompting the 76ers to be more careful with him to begin the season.
Luckily for the 76ers, Embiid's co-stars have been delivering for the team, as Tyrese Maxey has guided Philadelphia in their first two victories, tallying 40 and 28 points, respectively, to open the season. Rookie VJ Edgecombe has also scored 34 points in their opener, before chipping in 15 points in the second match.
76ers head coach Nick Nurse reveals what he expects from Joel Embiid
As the 76ers field a new-look crew around Joel Embiid this season, Philadelphia 76ers head coach Nick Nurse thinks there will be some variety of offensive looks throughout the season.
As per Nurse, he wants to see Embiid work with players like Maxey and Edgecombe on the court to create several offensive chances.
"I give Jo some credit," he said. "He’s figuring the stuff we’re doing out and where he fits into it instead of just saying ‘This is all we can do’... I want the variety of him and someone. I want him and Tyrese, of course, we know that. I want him and VJ. I want him and Q. I want him and Kelly. Him and Paul. I want some variety and that’s probably where I’m at right now with him."
With a 2-0 start, the 76ers will look to maintain their unbeaten run as they take on the Orlando Magic on Monday.