Golden State Warriors: Could Joel Embiid be a potential offseason trade target?

OAKLAND, CA - JANUARY 31: Joel Embiid #21 of the Philadelphia 76ers dunks the ball during the game against the Golden State Warriors on January 31, 2019 at ORACLE Arena in Oakland, California. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2019 NBAE (Photo by Noah Graham/NBAE via Getty Images)
OAKLAND, CA - JANUARY 31: Joel Embiid #21 of the Philadelphia 76ers dunks the ball during the game against the Golden State Warriors on January 31, 2019 at ORACLE Arena in Oakland, California. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2019 NBAE (Photo by Noah Graham/NBAE via Getty Images) /
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(Photo by Vaughn Ridley/Getty Images)
(Photo by Vaughn Ridley/Getty Images) /

The Sixers’ struggles

While it’s highly unlikely, Embiid has every reason to want out, and the Sixers may have at least a few thoughts about dealing him for the right return.

After all, they did sign center Al Horford to a long-term deal this past offseason and the duo has not shown promise. On top of that, Embiid is not having a great season as the Sixers have completely missed the ball on their early-season expectations.

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While they will still be a playoff contender, they aren’t the dominant force many had hoped for. While it can’t all be put on Embiid, he’s not played his best basketball this season. The 25-year-old is averaging 23.3 points per game, down from over 27 per game last season.

For the most part, his numbers across the board are down, and if you combine that with the Sixers’ struggles this season, it’s easy to see why Embiid could be on the market. The price for a superstar like Embiid is relatively unknown.

It’s not overly similar to Paul George or Anthony Davis’ situation. Embiid is under contract and is the sole face of the Sixers.

He’s seemingly enjoyed his time in Philadelphia, but with the city having booed Embiid’s Sixers although still in the playoff race, Embiid could be looking for a new fanbase to appreciate his efforts.