Why Joel Embiid was he still on the ground? This question has been talked about a lot since the announcement of the Cameroonian’s injury. While the Philadelphia Sixers were leading by 29 points with 4 minutes remaining in Game 6 against the Toronto Raptors, the interior therefore received a blow to the face on a penetration of Pascal Siakam.
Verdict? An orbital fracture and a concussion for the star, unavailable until further notice. Targeted by critics for his management of Embiid, the 76ers coach Doc Rivers responded to his detractors. And the former Boston Celtics coach remains straight in his boots.
“Everyone was on the court, and the other team had all their guys as well. After Joel’s basket and his celebration with the plane (the previous possession), if you watch the game, I turned around and I said, ‘I’m asking for a time out on the next possession’.
I’m not angry that he was in the field. You can make a big deal out of it if you want. But look at all the teams, all the games, and their guys are on the line until about four or three minutes. It’s like that”, justified Doc Rivers facing the press.
An explanation all the same a little wobbly… On vacation in the event of a defeat, Toronto had no interest in managing their players. On the other hand, Rivers had to protect Joel Embiid, already affected in the thumb, for the rest of the Playoffs with a qualification already (almost) acquired.
A mistake that could benefit the Miami Heat in the next round.
Joel Embiid is already slipping a little pressure on James Harden…
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