Joel Embiid (Photo : Nick Laham / Getty Images Sport)
The NBA trade rumors will always have the Boston Celtics because they are an asset-filled team with the clear intention of acquiring a star.
The Celtics still dream of a dominant big man, and the opportunity may have opened up if they are willing to take a risk. Joel Embiid of the Philadelphia 76ers may end up on the block based on a report from SI that he has been a problem for the team.
"According to sources, this followed a pattern of insubordination from Embiid during the rehabilitation of his initial foot injury that sidelined him for the entire 2014-15 season, where he would repeatedly refuse to answer questions from the training staff about his workouts and therapy sessions."
Those are strong accusations that have yet to be confirmed by the Sixers. Insubordination when he refused to follow strict injury rehabilitation instructions and even dietary habits may be red flags, but they still do not change the fact that Embiid is physically gifted and talented.
If the Celtics, specifically Danny Ainge is willing to take a risk that he can rein in Embiid, then this is the opportunity he has been waiting for. Fans at The Celtics Blog are already debating on who or what assets they should give up.
From user 'curtjester1' who also made the original post: "I would give up choice of Rozier/AB, any PF/C except for Mickey, and possibly one of next year's first round picks. I don't think we would lose too much, and even the the Risk/Reward might be worth it if Embiid fully recovered."
If Embiid eventually recovers well and shows signs of his potential, Boston would have won this trade by a mile and will position itself as an attractive free agent destination. On the other hand, he could be a complete waste of real assets if the accusations in the SI report hold true.
One thing of note is that the Celtics, more than any other team, have the assets that Sixers GM Sam Hinkie covets: draft picks. Ainge would be prudent in verifying Embiid's condition before opening up their war chest, but it's more likely that he would take a long, hard look at this opportunity.
