Joel Embiid has now entered the debate of physical play in the post-season. On Thursday night, Embiid kicked Brooklyn’s Nic Claxton after Claxton decided to stand over the Philly big man. With kicking becoming a massive topic of discussion this week in the NBA, Embiid may regret taking part in the action. Although an Embiid-Draymond vs. Young Bucks match for the ownership of the super kick would be pretty epic. However, the officials quickly took control of the game.
Embiid was not tossed from the game. But something tells me that this situation is far from over. Draymond Green has been suspended for Game 3 of the Warriors and Kings. Stemming from his stomping incident with Domantas Sabonis. A kick and a stomp are different. Maybe Green will change Seth Rollins instead of challenging the Young Bucks. However, Embiid not being ejected for his actions will more than likely have everyone in Golden State on edge. Check out some of Twitter’s best reactions below.
Joel Embiid Not Ejected For Kick
Nic Claxton finished this and-one over Joel Embiid and was kicked by Embiid in the groin as it looked like he stepped over him
Play is under review.pic.twitter.com/HQIuk3urGn
— ClutchPoints (@ClutchPointsApp) April 20, 2023
More than likely, NBA will hear some type of punishment on Friday. It took over 24 hours to announce they had suspended Green without pay. However, Embiid not being tossed from Game 3 does seem to bring up a double standard. In Green’s case, one could make the argument that the stomp was a reaction. Even though a terrible reaction, it could still be considered that. However, Embiid’s action was brought on by a taunt. Something that should’ve never brought that kind of reaction.
Not only is Embiid going to be dealing with the kick. The Sixers big man has gone to the locker room in the middle of the game due to injury. He has since returned. Although he doesn’t look to be 100%. Twitter is still attempting to digest the actions made by Embiid. Where do you stand on the kick? Should Joel Embiid have been ejected for the kick? What will this mean for Green’s suspension? Let us know your thoughts on the matter in the comment section. For the latest NBA news, keep it right here with HNHH.