Tracy McGrady on Jaylen Brown and Joel Embiid’s Tension
Tracy McGrady recently shared insights about the ongoing rivalry between Jaylen Brown and Joel Embiid, suggesting they still aren’t on friendly terms. He discussed the situation on his show, “Cousins,” noting that despite being teammates for nearly two weeks, Brown and Embiid have yet to connect.
Brown was traded to Embiid’s Philadelphia 76ers on July 1 in exchange for Paul George and a draft pick. According to McGrady, there hasn’t been any dialogue between the two. “I don’t think there was any conversation between them, at least to my knowledge,” he remarked. Interestingly, Brown did reach out to Tyrese Maxey and VJ Edgecombe, but not to Embiid.
As McGrady pointed out, given their new situation, it would have made sense for Brown to initiate a conversation with Embiid. Both he and Vince Carter felt that, while Brown should have taken the first step, Embiid should also have made an effort. “We’re starting a fresh start, Joel. You’re starting a fresh start, and now you add another MVP along with the young boys you need to make things easier,” McGrady elaborated.
This tension between Embiid and Brown first surfaced when they faced each other in the NBA playoffs back in May. Post-Game 4, Brown mentioned in a press conference that he felt Embiid was “failing,” pointing out that he had received favorable calls despite Brown’s attempts to counter his size and playing style.
On a more optimistic note, after the trade, the 76ers’ president of basketball operations, Mike Gansey, expressed that the team welcomed this change. He indicated that Embiid, who has faced numerous injuries in recent years, is feeling motivated and energized this offseason. “He’s very motivated. I called him right after the trade and he was excited,” Gansey said.
With Brown joining the squad, it could potentially lighten Embiid’s load and give him the chance to focus on his recovery as Maxey emerges as a rising star in the league. The 76ers were swept by the Knicks after defeating the Celtics in the first round, so they’ll be looking to improve next season.
