Joel Embiid has been an absolute stud for the Philadelphia 76ers over the past few years and has been a big reason why the Sixers have been able to turn themselves into one of the best teams in the Eastern Conference. Unfortunately for the Sixers, Embiid has been plagued by injuries and at times, he has battled through illnesses. Yesterday afternoon, Embiid was sick once again and even needed IV fluids in the morning so that he could be ready to go against the Raptors.
Embiid was able to log 35 minutes against the Raptors, although his illness caught up to him as he was only able to muster 11 points in a 101-96 loss. After the game, Embiid spoke about his illness and how it affected his game.
"I mean, at the end of the day, it's on me," Embiid said according to ESPN. "I got to be more aggressive. Today wasn't the same as [Game 3]. Staying aggressive, especially offensively, I've got to help my teammates better. But still on me."
Sixers coach Brett Brown also spoke after the game and detailed the text he received from Embiid that morning which alerted him of the illness.
"I got a text from him at 6:20 a.m. this morning telling me he didn't really sleep all night, he really never felt this poorly and, 'I wasn't sure, Coach, if I'm going to play.' That's how my day started," Brown explained.