Tracy McGrady attends the 2025 NBA All Star Game at Chase Center.
Cary Edmondson-Imagn Images
All one has to do is look at the Philadelphia 76ers on paper and objectively declare that they should be one of the best teams this year. Acquiring LeBron James from free agency was a coup. This rounded out a truly stacked roster featuring Jaylen Brown, Tyrese Maxey, V.J. Edgecombe, and Joel Embiid.
Speaking of Embiid, former NBA player Tracy McGrady heavily emphasized Embiid's role as the X Factor for the 76ers' success, per the Cousins with Vince Carter & Tracy McGrady podcast. McGrady was adamant in saying that Embiid's health will be the deciding factor. In other words, if Embiid stays healthy, that will be all that matters.
“[Joel Embiid] is the x factor… If that five is healthy, I don’t give a damn what they got on the bench.”
“[Joel Embiid] is the x factor… If that five is healthy, I don’t give a damn what they got on the bench.”
Tracy McGrady’s thoughts on the new look Sixers 👀
(via @VinceAndTmac) pic.twitter.com/Aj6ZQ9aF1Z
— ClutchPoints (@ClutchPoints) August 4, 2026
Embiid is under pressure to succeed with James' arrival, especially considering his lengthy injury report. Over the years, he has undergone operations for foot, facial, and knee injuries. He also missed the first two seasons of his career due to injuries after being drafted 3rd in the 2014 NBA Draft.
In April, Embiid underwent surgery for appendicitis, and there was concern that he would miss the remainder of the season and postseason. However, Embiid returned to the 76ers during their first-round series against the Boston Celtics. The 76ers came back from a 3-1 deficit to win in seven games.
As it pertains to the bench, the second unit is expected to be a stabilizing force. They can maintain an even pace, hold leads, and score efficiently while Embiid rests. Without him, they will have to take on a greater role in trying to win games.
Either way, the success of the 76ers is incumbent not on LeBron, but on Embiid.