When people compare today’s NBA to older eras, it’s difficult to remain fair and objective due to different rules, play-styles, situations, etc. However, one aspect that has always been prevalent in the NBA is health, and Julius Erving is willing to offer guidance to Joel Embiid to aid him in getting his body right for the remainder of his career.
In an interview with Kevin Kincade and Andrew Salciunas of 97.5 “The Fanatic”, Erving opened up about his relationship with Embiid, or lack thereof: “So, I’ve only spoken to Joel \[Embiid\] in passing, and have not really been invited to have a sit-down conversation with him about his health, his wellness, his career, and all that,” Erving said. “No, I haven’t been in that position. And you know, it wasn’t my job, it’s somebody else’s job per se. I wouldn’t mind doing it if I was asked to do that – or even asked by him – but that hasn’t happened.”
This is one of many quotes that emphasize the magnitude of Embiid’s nightmarish 2024-25 season. Due to lingering issues in his left knee, he was limited to 19 games and appeared far from the player who won the Most Valuable Player award two years ago. Embiid was shut down in late February, and the Philadelphia 76ers finished the season with a 24-58 record, prompting them to acquire [the third overall pick](https://thesixersense.com/76ers-reportedly-throwing-curveball-option-into-spurs-controversial-draft-plan-01jxjbpjbzdy) in the 2025 NBA Draft.
Embiid needs to call the "Doctor"
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If Embiid were open to it, Erving would be an excellent resource for him from both a winning and longevity perspective. The 16-time all-star headlined the most dominant era in 76ers’ history. During Erving’s 11-year 76ers tenure, he led them to eight seasons with 50 or more wins, four NBA Finals appearances, and the title in the 1982-83 season where he and Moses Malone disposed of the Los Angeles Lakers in four games.
When debating who the greatest 76ers player of all-time is, it doesn’t get better than the floor-raising and consistent winning that Erving achieved. On-court production aside, he was in peak condition through his 16-year career spanning from the ABA to the NBA. Erving retired following the 1986-87 season at 36 years old coming off a 16.8 point-per-game season and an all-star selection. While Embiid is larger and plays a different position, Erving was able to be in great shape in an era where nutrition and resources weren’t as advanced.
All this to say, Erving could give invaluable advice to Embiid to help him prepare for the later stage of his career from a perspective of winning, leadership, and longevity. Erving can now be paired alongside Allen Iverson in a group of former 76ers players who want to help the team, but are yet to be publicly contacted.