LeBron James’ Agent Sets the Record Straight on Rumors About Joel Embiid’s Poor Work Ethic As Expectations Mount for New-Look 76ers

LeBron James and Joel Embiid are set to join forces for the Philadelphia 76ers, creating what could be one of the NBA's most formidable frontcourts heading into the upcoming season.

With plenty of speculation about how the revamped 76ers roster will fare, an unflattering assessment of Embiid recently surfaced, prompting a response from James' agent, Rich Paul.

LeBron James' Agent Pushes Back on Joel Embiid Work Ethic Claims With Strong Message

During a recent episode of the "Game Over" podcast with Max Kellerman, Paul suggested that although James' days of playing for Team USA are likely behind him, the superstar could still be involved with the national team at the 2028 Olympics in a mentoring role.

While discussing the possibility, Kellerman raised concerns he had previously heard about Embiid's work ethic during the 2024 Paris Olympics. He said Brian Scalabrine had shared observations about Embiid from his time with the Olympic team.

Kellerman explained that when elite players come together, there is often an unspoken competition involving luxury cars, watches, money, and, most importantly, who is willing to work the hardest.

According to what Kellerman had heard, Embiid did not fit that description.

Kellerman then questioned Paul about whether that could eventually create issues for the Sixers and whether James might have to step in and push Embiid to improve.

However, Paul dismissed those concerns and offered a completely different assessment.

"No, I've heard nothing but great things about Joel this summer," Paul said . "I heard he's been in the best shape, and he's been healthy all summer. So, what Scal is saying normally, yeah, that is the case. I've been around tons of USA Teams, but I don't think that is the case."

By landing James and completing the blockbuster Jaylen Brown trade this offseason, Philadelphia has given Embiid another reason to stay healthy as the franchise continues its championship pursuit.

James already has a strong relationship with Embiid from their time together on Team USA, potentially giving the 76ers an experienced superstar duo with an established connection.

However, James has reportedly had concerns about one major aspect of Embiid's game: his durability. According to ESPN's Ramona Shelburne, the four-time champion has long admired Embiid's talent and basketball IQ, but reportedly questioned whether the seven-time All-Star could consistently stay healthy.

Those concerns have proven understandable, as injuries have significantly limited Embiid over the past few seasons.

He has failed to appear in more than 39 games in each of the last three seasons. Last season, Embiid suited up for 38 games while averaging 26.9 points per game. He also missed games during Philadelphia's playoff series, though those absences were related to emergency appendicitis surgery rather than his knee issues.

Over the previous two regular seasons, the 2023 MVP has appeared in 57 games combined, which is fewer than the 41-year-old James played last season.