“He talks a ton for never winning shit” – NBA analyst expects more clutch plays & pressure handling from Joel Embiid

Although Philadelphia 76ers star Joel Embiid is admired by Barstool Sports founder Dave Portnoy, he did have a critique of the star.

"He's an interesting cat because I actually like him, but I will say he talks a ton for never winning shit," Portnoy said while discussing NBA players he likes and doesn't like on the "Pat Bev Podcast with Rone."

Embiid has not won an NBA title, but he has been one of the league's best players in the past six seasons. Last season, he was the runner-up for MVP.

Portnoy said that he didn’t feel the big man was clutch.

"Like, I wanted Embiid with the ball, he's turning over a lot in the clutch, maybe because he's getting too much pressure didn't have the, like, teammates around him, but I wanted Embiid with the ball in the playoffs, but I do like him as a person," Portnoy said.

Portnoy’s opinion of Embiid ignores a lot. Embiid went into the playoffs with teammates like Ben Simmons, who wouldn’t shoot. He had help with James Harden last season, but Harden didn’t play well when he came over after the trade in February. Embiid has been a steady presence for the Sixers and will be their key to winning a championship.

---

The Sixers playing good without Harden

The Philadelphia 76ers, who are 7-7, will have to improve that record in order to make a serious playoff run. This is expected to be difficult with star guard James Harden out due to injury.

The Sixers have seemed to find their groove lately, winning three of their last four games. Superstar center Joel Embiid has really stepped up to carry the team. In the last two games, the center has really exploded and proved to be unstoppable.

In a 121-109 win over the Atlanta Hawks on Saturday night, Embiid had a monster game of 42 points, 10 rebounds and six assists. He then followed up that performance with an even bigger game on Sunday. Embiid brought it to the Utah Jazz in a 105-98 victory. Embiid scored 59 points and had 11 rebounds, eight assists and seven blocks. He was a problem on the offensive and defensive end.

Outside of Embiid, Tyrese Maxey is playing well, averaging 22.8 points per game. The team will need bigger contributions from Tobias Harris, who should be getting more touches with Harden out.

The Sixers' next game will be against the Milwaukee Bucks (10-3) on Friday at 7:30 p.m. Eastern Standard Time.