Gilbert Arenas makes a brutal suggestion to two 76ers stars: “If they can’t help you win a championship…”

Given the current circumstances, Gilbert Arenas made a bold suggestion for how the Sixers should view the future in 2024-25.

Shut it down for Embiid and George

The 76ers have generated a lot of expectations after their last groundbreaking summer. When they reportedly secured the free agency signing of Paul George in a four-year deal at a maximum price of $212, Philadelphia was loftily viewed as one of the legitimate title contenders.

But health-wise things aren’t going according to plan for Philly. Embiid has been heavily inactive due to knee issues and a facial injury, playing in just seven games so far this year. George, meanwhile, is dealing with a bone bruise in his left knee that affected his average points total of 17.1 points on 43.7 percent shooting in 14 games.

In the most recent segment at Gil’s Arena, former NBA star Gilbert Arenas called on the 76ers to deactivate both Embiid and George and turn their championship focus to next season.

“The problem is this. What you did for Embiid and Paul George a few weeks ago let the world know that you’re not championship ready. …You should have cut the cord before f—–g,” Arenas exclaimed. “Embiid, cut – you’re not playing anymore. Paul George, we’ll see. If not, get well.

They won’t help you win a championship this year. So if they can’t help you win a championship, shut them down. F – whatever their ego tells them. If your ego says I want to win, I’m not giving up anything – I just paid you money. I have to protect it. Sit down (Embiid and George).

Let the young people endure it

By waiving Embiid and George, Arenas wants the 76ers to be able to spend the rest of their season letting their young talent take the lead. Since the superstar duo can take time to rest and fully recover over the next year, Arenas noted that it would be beneficial for young players like Tyrese Maxey to continue their development.

“This is your team. Show me what you have because in the summer I have to make a decision whether you are here or not,” Arenas added. “I have to let (Tyrese) Maxey, (Jared) McCain and (Kenyon Jr.) Martin play 40 minutes. … I don’t care about you two (Embiid and George) – what you talk about, relax.

“I don’t need you when you’re older, when you’re playing, getting hurt, tweaking your ankles and then switching back and forth, and maybe next year I won’t have you anymore. So sit down and get well.”

Even as the first half of the season approaches, it is still very difficult for the 76ers to decide whether they can still keep their foot on the gas pedal. As it stands, there may still be a chance for them to pull off a dramatic turnaround on the season and repeat what the Milwaukee Bucks did tremendously.

However, considering the health status of their two main stars, it would also be justified for them to simply postpone their commitment and give Embiid and George more leeway to be fully prepared for next year.

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