Joel Embiid Signs a Massive Contract Extension With the Philadelphia 76ers

Philadelphia 76ers and 7x All-Star Joel Embiid have agreed a three-year contract extension worth approximately 193-million dollars, according to the Athletics Shams Charania. This deal will make Embiid one of the highest paid players in the NBA.

The 30-year-old center Joel Embiid made headlines early Friday morning by announcing his contract extension on Instagram, posting a photo of him signing the deal alongside team owner Josh Harris. "I want to be here the rest of my career. I love this community and everything you've given me and my family,” Embiid wrote. "There is a lot more work to do. You guys deserve a championship, and I think we're just getting started." 

With this massive extension, Embiid’s contract now spans five years and $301 million, making it one of the most lucrative deals in NBA history. Honestly, it’s hard to argue that he doesn’t deserve it. Embiid has been nothing short of sensational over the past few seasons, firmly establishing himself as one of the best—if not the best—players in the league. He won MVP two seasons ago and was a leading contender to win it again last season. Unfortunately, a meniscus tear sidelined him, causing him to miss the 65-game minimum required to be eligible for postseason awards. Despite that setback, he still managed to put up career-high numbers, averaging 34.7 points, 11 rebounds, and 1.7 blocks in just 39 games. 

The Sixers haven’t just locked down Embiid this offseason. They’ve been busy making other big moves, too. Alongside Embiid’s extension, 23-year-old guard Tyrese Maxey secured a five-year, $201 million deal. To top it off, GM Daryl Morey pulled off a major coup by luring Paul George from the LA Clippers. George inked a four-year, $212 million contract, giving the Sixers a formidable trio heading into the 2024/25 season. With Embiid, Maxey, and George, Philly have a roster that can seriously contend for an NBA title. 

However, the key to their championship hopes will rest on whether Embiid can stay healthy. His injury record has been a thorn in the side of the Sixers for years. Last season, Embiid missed 43 games due to a knee injury, and come playoff time, he’s rarely been at 100%. To add to the concern, Paul George also has a history of injuries. So, while Philly may have one of the most talented rosters in the league, there are still doubts about their durability. Many fans are cautiously optimistic, but some remain skeptical about whether this star-studded lineup can actually deliver. It’s a bit of a gamble, but it’s also the Sixers’ best chance in years to end their 41-year championship drought.