"Loving this Joel Embiid and Sixers downfall" - NBA fans pile on 76ers after dropping to 2-12 as Paul George suffers another injury 

NBA: Philadelphia 76ers at Memphis Grizzlies - Source: Imagn
NBA fans pile on 76ers after dropping to 2-12 as Paul George suffers another injury (Image Credit: Petre Thomas-Imagn Images)

Joel Embiid's Philadelphia 76ers' early season woes continued during Wednesday's road matchup against the shorthanded Memphis Grizzlies. The Sixers fell 117-111 and dropped to a league-worst 2-12 record, garnering harsh NBA fan criticism. Meanwhile, they suffered another injury setback, losing star wing Paul George to a knee ailment.

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Wednesday's contest marked Philly's first with Embiid, George and star guard Tyrese Maxey in the lineup together. However, the trio's debut was short-lived, as George suffered a left knee hyperextension after an awkward landing early in the third quarter. He finished the contest with just two points on 1-for-6 (16.7%) shooting in 17 minutes.

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The nine-time All-Star missed the season's first five games due to a bone bruise in the same knee. So, the Sixers' top offseason acquisition continues to have bad injury luck to start his first campaign with his new team.

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In George's absence, Philly fell behind by as many as 19 points. Embiid tallied a game-high 35 points and 11 rebounds, shooting 47.6%. However, it wasn't enough to overcome Grizzlies star forward Jaren Jackson Jr. and shooting guard Desmond Bane's combined 46 points.

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The Sixers' loss to a Memphis squad playing without its top player, Ja Morant (hip), marked their fifth straight. Afterward, fans on X/Twitter mocked the supposed NBA championship contenders for sitting at the bottom of the league standings.

"'Trust the process. We got them right where we want them,'" @HeatvsHaters said.
"I'm loving this Embiid and Sixers downfall. Deserved AF," @Phil_Was_Here_ wrote.
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"The Sixers' 2-12 start is like watching a blockbuster sequel that somehow missed the memo on what made the original great," @beeksvybe said.

Meanwhile, others questioned Joel Embiid's mindset and dedication to his squad.

"Embiid is a cancer at this point," @WildBillNC1978 wrote.
"But Embiid wants to sit out back-to-backs. That's more important than winning," @rj_trading1 said.
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"Embiid is a locker room cancer and a washed free throw merchant. Trade his a**," @RodDontCare wrote.

Sixers' losing streak continues after Tyrese Maxey calls out Joel Embiid in team meeting

Philly's latest loss comes two days after its well-documented team meeting. Per ESPN's Shams Charania, the Sixers had a "much-needed heart-to-heart" following Monday's 106-89 road loss to the Miami Heat, their fourth straight defeat.

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During the meeting, Tyrese Maxey reportedly "challenged" Joel Embiid, pointing out that he is "late for everything," which negatively impacts the team.

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While Embiid seemingly responded to the call to action, it didn't help Philly snap its losing skid.

The Sixers' (2-12) next chance to get back on track comes on Friday when they host the Brooklyn Nets (6-9).


Also Read: NBA podcaster believes Klutch Sports leaked Joel Embiid-Tyrese Maxey confrontation in media due to one tell-tale phrase

76ers Fan? Check out the latest Philadelphia 76ers depth chart, schedule, and roster updates all in one place.

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Edited by Tristan Rawcliffe
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