It was a subtle but powerful statement — one that could shift the entire trajectory of the franchise if it turns out to be true. Because whether it’s his health, his age or just a sense of timing, Embiid’s potential exit would leave a massive void in Philadelphia.

Joel Embiid is one of the greatest players in NBA history, but no one would know it the way he’s talked about. There has never been a more disrespected player in NBA history than Embiid, and there is not a close second.