LeBron James and Joel Embiid are set to join forces for the Philadelphia 76ers, creating what could be one of the NBA\u2019s most formidable frontcourts heading into the upcoming season.<\/p>\n
With plenty of speculation about how the revamped 76ers roster will fare, an unflattering assessment of Embiid recently surfaced, prompting a response from James\u2019 agent, Rich Paul.<\/p>\n
LeBron James\u2019 Agent Pushes Back on Joel Embiid Work Ethic Claims With Strong Message<\/p>\n
During a recent episode of the \u201cGame Over\u201d podcast with Max Kellerman, Paul suggested that although James\u2019 days of playing for Team USA are likely behind him, the superstar could still be involved with the national team at the 2028 Olympics in a mentoring role.<\/p>\n
While discussing the possibility, Kellerman raised concerns he had previously heard about Embiid\u2019s work ethic during the 2024 Paris Olympics. He said Brian Scalabrine had shared observations about Embiid from his time with the Olympic team.<\/p>\n
Kellerman explained that when elite players come together, there is often an unspoken competition involving luxury cars, watches, money, and, most importantly, who is willing to work the hardest.<\/p>\n
MORE:\u2018Pocket Watching LeBron\u2019s Son\u2019 \u2013 Blake Griffin\u2019s Blunt Bronny James Take Resurfaces, Ignites Debate As Lakers Guard Gears Up for Year 3<\/a><\/p>\n According to what Kellerman had heard, Embiid did not fit that description.<\/p>\n Kellerman then questioned Paul about whether that could eventually create issues for the Sixers and whether James might have to step in and push Embiid to improve.<\/p>\n However, Paul dismissed those concerns and offered a completely different assessment.<\/p>\n \u201cNo, I\u2019ve heard nothing but great things about Joel this summer,\u201d Paul said<\/a>. \u201cI heard he\u2019s been in the best shape, and he\u2019s been healthy all summer. So, what Scal is saying normally, yeah, that is the case. I\u2019ve been around tons of USA Teams, but I don\u2019t think that is the case.\u201d<\/p>\n By landing James and completing the blockbuster Jaylen Brown trade this offseason, Philadelphia has given Embiid another reason to stay healthy as the franchise continues its championship pursuit.<\/p>\n James already has a strong relationship with Embiid from their time together on Team USA, potentially giving the 76ers an experienced superstar duo with an established connection.<\/p>\n However, James has reportedly had concerns about one major aspect of Embiid\u2019s game: his durability. According to ESPN\u2019s Ramona Shelburne, the four-time champion has long admired Embiid\u2019s talent and basketball IQ, but reportedly questioned whether the seven-time All-Star could consistently stay healthy.<\/p>\n