Joel Embiid Injury History Focuses 76ers Backup Center Search

As the Philadelphia 76ers prepare for the 2026-27 season with new additions LeBron James and Jaylen Brown, scrutiny remains on the backup center situation behind starter Joel Embiid due to his extensive injury history. Third-year big man Adem Bona, who averaged 4.8 points, 4.3 rebounds, and 1.2 blocks in 17.4 minutes per game last season, and new signing Ariel Hukporti will compete for minutes behind Embiid, while Dominick Barlow, Dean Wade, and James serve as versatile small-ball options.