ESPN analyst Stephen A. Smith has declared a healthy Joel Embiid as the single biggest factor for the Philadelphia 76ers to win an NBA championship. The team, fresh off a 112-106 victory over the Detroit Pistons on November 4, 2026, is currently on a five-game winning streak.
During a recent episode of 'First Take,' Smith made a bold prediction. He argued that the Sixers' title hopes rest entirely on the health of their star center, not on their high-profile offseason additions. "If Joel Embiid is at 70-75 percent come playoff time, the Philadelphia 76ers are winning the championship," Smith said. He doubled down, stating, "I don't believe they win the championship without Embiid."
So far, the 2026-27 campaign has started well for both Embiid and the Sixers. The team's 8-1 record is the best in the league, powered by a perfect 5-0 run in their last five contests. Embiid has suited up for seven games, averaging 33 minutes per night. His stat line reads 19.6 points, 10.0 rebounds, and 4.4 assists per game. His shooting percentages are 41.3% from the field and 88% from the free-throw line, though his three-point shot is at 11.5% early on. Managing his workload appears to be a priority.
Joel Embiid's injury history is well-documented. The 2014 No. 3 overall pick has missed significant time throughout his career. Last season, knee and hip problems limited him to just 38 regular-season games. He did return for the playoffs, helping engineer a first-round upset over the Boston Celtics. That playoff run showed his value. When he's on the floor, even at less than full capacity, he transforms the team's ceiling. His ability to dominate the paint and draw double-teams is something the new-look roster can't replicate.
The immediate focus is a road test against the Cleveland Cavaliers on November 6, 2026. It's the next challenge in a strong opening stretch. Fans can track the team's progress and upcoming schedule on our schedule page. The long-term goal, as Smith emphasized, is getting a fully operational Embiid to the postseason. If his minutes are managed and he avoids major setbacks, the Sixers have the talent to make a deep run. Their recent form, including wins over the Bulls, Hornets, and Knicks, shows they can win even when he's not putting up MVP numbers. But for a title, they'll need their best player at his best when it matters most.
