Embiid’s Health Sparks 76ers’ New Power Forward Strategy
The 76ers’ Search for the Perfect Supporting Role
For as long as Joel Embiid has been the centerpiece of the Philadelphia 76ers’ offense, the team has struggled to find the right player to complement him. This season, the challenge has taken on a new form, with the emergence of Adem Bona as a potential solution.
In Friday’s postseason finale, Embiid started at center, paired with Bona, a second-year player from UCLA. While Bona is primarily seen as a backup center, his presence signals a shift in strategy for the 76ers. This move hints at a possible reevaluation of how they approach the supporting role next to Embiid.
Embiid himself is acutely aware of this challenge. “Over my career, that’s something that I’ve always felt like was kind of needed,” he said after scoring 19 points, grabbing seven rebounds, and dishing out eight assists in just 19 minutes. “Everybody has always been focused on shooting, stretch-four, things like that. And I think just having a bunch of guys around that are going to go after every loose ball, play defense, rebound the ball, and fly up and down the court, I think that goes a long way.”
A Shift in Strategy
The conventional wisdom in the NBA over the past decade has leaned toward wings — players who can handle the ball, shoot from the perimeter, and provide versatility. When building around a transcendent talent like Embiid, the center position often becomes a spot for rim protectors who don’t need to do much more than rebound, collect second-chance points, and set screens for guards.
Nikola Jokic is an exception, but the 76ers have chosen a different path by focusing on maximizing Embiid’s unique skills. For years, they’ve used the power forward spot to bring in shooters and spacers, such as Al Horford, Paul George, and Guerschon Yabusele. Even this year’s additions of Trendon Watford and Jabari Walker were aimed at spreading the floor and providing defensive support.
However, Bona represents a different approach. He doesn’t take many three-point shots, but his ability to rebound, defend, and play hard makes him a valuable asset. “We’ve been playing Joel and Bona together in practice a little bit. Kind of liked what we see there,” said coach Nick Nurse. “I think again at both ends, it was fine. Offensively, it’s Bona keeping some offensive rebounds alive. But defensively, I thought it showed up even more. It seemed like we had really good rim protection to start the game.”
Rebounding and Defense: Key Priorities
Rebounding and defense have become crucial for the 76ers, especially given Embiid’s injury history. Last year, the team ranked dead last in total rebounding and rebounding percentage (47.1). They also allowed the third-highest shooting percentage within five feet of the basket (65.8%). Adding a player like Bona, who can contribute on both ends, is essential.
Bona’s success in the NBA will depend heavily on his effort on defense and the glass. As a second-round pick, he understood this from the start, and it remains true today. His role is clear: to do the dirty work so that Embiid can focus on being the dominant force he has been throughout his career.
Players like Jabari Walker and Dominick Barlow, both on two-way contracts, also play a part in this strategy. “I feel like defense, just being active and being a great communicator on defense, bringing that energy, I feel like it’s helpful,” Walker said. “And rebounding. The big fellas, they do a great job at rebounding, but the four-man can help with that a lot.”
Flexibility in Lineups
The 76ers have learned from last year’s struggles, where they looked lost without Embiid. This season, flexibility is a core principle, whether or not Embiid is on the court. The team has experimented with different lineups, including players like Kelly Oubre and VJ Edgecombe, to create a more dynamic offense.
Having options is critical, especially after last year’s challenges. Players like Watford, who missed most of the preseason with a hamstring strain, are now back and contributing. This variety gives the team more depth and adaptability.
“I feel like defense, just being active and being a great communicator on defense, bringing that energy, I feel like it’s helpful,” Walker said. “And rebounding. The big fellas, they do a great job at rebounding, but the four-man can help with that a lot.”
Conclusion
As the 76ers continue to refine their approach, the role of the supporting cast remains vital. With Embiid at the center, the team needs players who can rebound, defend, and provide energy. Bona’s emergence offers a promising direction, and the team is exploring various strategies to build around their star. Whether through traditional roles or unconventional lineups, the goal is clear: to create a balanced and effective team that can thrive with or without Embiid.
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