Sixers star Joel Embiid talks defensive play, relationship with Ben Simmons
Much has been made of the relationship between the Philadelphia 76ers star duo of Joel Embiid and Ben Simmons. The two of them have been criticized in the past for not winning together and for not having a great relationship on and off the floor.
That has been a difference in the 2020-21 season as they have been able to have a ton of success on the floor together. Philadelphia is sitting at the No. 1 seed in the Eastern Conference and it is mostly due to the play of their star duo being able to step up when it matters most.
Both Simmons and Embiid have been elite on the defensive end of the floor as both players are up for Defensive Player of the Year in 2021. Simmons has been the leader for most of the season due to his ability to guard any player the Sixers throw him on and neutralize that player.
“He’s been aggressive, he’s been himself,” said Embiid of Simmons. “He’s made a huge step. Even last year, he started last year, defensively, and then this year, he’s just been a monster on that end. Just his aggressiveness and his willingness to guard whoever has the hot hand is huge for us.”
As far as their relationship goes, the two of them have been in sync together all season. Coach Doc Rivers praised the two of them for having a good relationship before their win over the Chicago Bulls on Monday and Embiid echoed his coach’s sentiments.
The stars are doing just fine and it is why the Sixers have a real shot at winning a championship.
“As far as our relationship, you can see it on the court,” Embiid added. “Not that there was anything before, but I think we’ve gotten way closer than before. We’ve been close before, but this year has just been amazing. I always say I love playing with him and I think we got a chance.”
The Sixers will finish their road trip on Wednesday against the Houston Rockets at the Toyota Center.
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