The New York Knicks have reportedly expressed interest in trading for Philadelphia 76ers center and reigning NBA MVP Joel Embiid, should he become available. Sources have indicated since midseason that Embiid is a player the Knicks are monitoring, and the 76ers' recent second-round playoff exit has only intensified their interest, according to Stefan Bondy of the New York Daily News.
While there is currently no indication that the Sixers have plans to trade Embiid, their playoff struggles this season, culminating in a seven-game series loss to the Boston Celtics, have raised questions about their future direction. Following their playoff elimination, the 76ers parted ways with head coach Doc Rivers, and further significant changes could be on the horizon. NBA executives reportedly expect star guard James Harden to opt out of his contract with the Sixers and potentially return to the Houston Rockets in free agency, as reported by Keith Pompey of the Philadelphia Inquirer.
If such changes occur, the Sixers would be left with a core featuring Embiid, Tyrese Maxey, and Tobias Harris, but with limited options to bolster a roster that has consistently fallen short of advancing beyond the second round of the playoffs, despite six consecutive postseason appearances. While a rebuild may be a consideration, trading a player of Embiid's caliber would likely be viewed as a last resort.
Embiid, 29, is coming off the best season of his career, securing his first MVP Award. He led the NBA in scoring for the second consecutive year with 33.1 points per game, along with 10.2 rebounds, 4.2 assists, 1.7 blocks, and 1.0 steal per game. However, Embiid's performance in the playoffs was hampered by injuries, as he averaged 23.7 points, 9.8 rebounds, 2.8 blocks, and 2.7 assists, shooting 43.1 percent from the field. His struggles were particularly evident in the 76ers' Game 7 loss to the Celtics, where he shot just 5-of-18 from the field for 15 points.
The Knicks have shown promise as a rising team, reaching the playoffs this season with a 47-35 record and advancing to the second round before being eliminated by the Miami Heat. The addition of guard Jalen Brunson elevated their performance, and players like Julius Randle, RJ Barrett, Immanuel Quickley, and Quentin Grimes had productive seasons. However, to become legitimate championship contenders, the Knicks arguably need another superstar, and Embiid would be an ideal fit.
Embiid is under contract for at least the next three seasons, with a player option for 2026-27, so the 76ers are unlikely to feel pressured to trade him. The Knicks could potentially offer a compelling package of draft picks and young players, but the Sixers would need to consider the implications of moving Embiid and potentially stepping away from immediate championship contention. As of now, it remains uncertain whether the Sixers are prepared to entertain such a significant move.
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