Sun Jan 04 02:50:00 UTC 2026: ## Embiid Prioritizes Team Success Over Individual Stats as He Regains Peak Form
DALLAS – Joel Embiid is feeling like himself again, and that’s good news for the Philadelphia 76ers. Following the Sixers’ dominant 123-108 victory over the Dallas Mavericks on Thursday, Embiid emphasized a shift in focus: prioritizing team success over chasing individual accolades.
“Taking what the defense gives me,” Embiid said after the game, where he scored 22 points, dished out 6 assists, and anchored the defense with a block and a physical presence. “But physically, where I felt most [like myself] is defensively. I’m getting back to that level of [protecting the rim], blocking shots, and being that defensive presence.”
Embiid’s recent performance reflects this renewed vigor. Over his last six games, the reigning MVP has averaged 29.2 points, 8 rebounds, and 3.8 assists. This is a significant jump from his first nine games where he averaged 18.2 points.
Embiid, who has battled knee issues in recent years, believes he’s getting back to the level where he feels like he could score 40 or 50 points every night. He emphasizes that he is doing more of what’s needed for the Sixers to succeed instead of making sure he puts up big individual numbers.
A testament to his regained confidence was an attempted off-the-backboard pass to himself during Tuesday’s win against the Grizzlies, a move he previously executed successfully in the playoffs against the Knicks. “The last time I tried it, I got hurt,” Embiid noted, suggesting the attempt was a sign of his improving physical condition.
The Sixers (18-14) will hope Embiid’s renewed focus and health continue to propel them forward in the Eastern Conference standings.
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