Joel Embiid, 76ers Agree on 5-Year Extension Worth $148 Million With Provision on Future Injuries
Just before the National Basketball Association's 2017-18 regular season begins, Joel Embiid and the Philadelphia 76ers settled on the player's maximum five-year extension deal that reportedly cost $148 million.
It is important to note, though, that the NBA's policy prohibits teams from divulging money-related information about a player's contract. However, ESPN's Adrian Wojnarowski claims they have league sources confirming the news.
Interestingly, the contract extension of the Cameroonian baller was signed shortly after he was cleared to play again after suffering from a knee injury he obtained from a game earlier this year.
In a statement, 76ers boss Joshua Harris said: "Since drafting Joel third overall in 2014, he has solidified himself as a pillar in this franchise and to this city. ... We are excited to further build our foundation around his unique talent and leadership skills, and we look forward to the continued growth of Joel and our team."
Meanwhile, in another report, ESPN brought up an interesting provision on Embiid's newly-signed contract and it had something to do with the center's unfortunate magnet for injuries.
In fact, many fans were shocked that the 76ers management agreed to a $148 million deal considering he was only able to play 31 games in the previous NBA regular season. Added to that, fans will recall that Embiid missed his first two seasons due to an injury as well.
According to reports, the 76ers and Embiid agreed that the organization had the right to waive the player if he missed 25 or more games and played less than 1,650 minutes in the regular season.
ESPN's sources add that the clause will also be applied only to injuries cited in the contract, including areas where Embiid had been injured before such as on his feet and back.
In the 31 games Embiid played last year, his average statistics were 20.2 points, 7.8 rebounds, and 2.5 blocks per game.
