"I hate his fit with the starters", "A distant third in terms of centers" - NBA community unconvinced by Joel Embiid's compatibility with Team USA

NBA fans are not convinced with Joel Embiid's fit with Team USA following his disastrous debut on Wednesday against Canada. Embiid finished the game with just five points and fouled out in the third quarter. He was outplayed by Anthony Davis and Bam Adebayo.

The 2023 NBA MVP started the game with Steph Curry, LeBron James, Jrue Holiday and Devin Booker. He was defended by Dwight Powell and had a hard time breaking him down due to the difference in rules. He was unable to get the usual foul calls under FIBA rules.

In addition to his poor performance on the offensive end, Embiid was also terrible defensively. He fouled out after just three quarters and even committed four turnovers. It was just a tough outing for the 30-year-old big man and may need a few more games to make the necessary adjustments.

NBA fans were quick to notice Joel Embiid's struggles for Team USA against Canada. Some are already calling for Anthony Davis to get the starting nod and play Embiid off the bench.

"Why is Joel Embiid co-opting possessions when Steph is on a heater? I hate his fit with the starters," one fan wrote.

"Embiid has been a distant third in terms of centers on Team USA. AD and Bam are just about all you need," another fan commented.

"I have a feeling Embiid is just there to match up with Joker," a fan claimed.

Joel Embiid is not used to being behind the pecking order since he's the number option for the Philadelphia 76ers. It's going to take some time to adjust to not having the basketball all the time with players such as LeBron James and Steph Curry on the roster. He's also coming off an injury, so that could be a factor as well.

"Better question is why he’s on the team. Such a bad move by USABB. Puts an asterisk next to any medal. Get him off. Terrible fit too," a fan shared.

"He's gonna be unplayable. His style of play not for the Olympics. He's not gonna be going to the free throw line 16 times a game like in the NBA when they give him every call," one fan wrote.

"He holds the ball for so long in the post. This team will be at its best when the balls moving but that's not Embiids style," another fan commented.

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Joel Embiid ready for hostile crowd at 2024 Paris Olympics

One of the most controversial decisions Joel Embiid has made in his career is choosing to play for Team USA rather than France. Embiid was heavily recruited by France and there were some rumors that he gave his word that he'd play for them in the Olympics.

With the games happening in Paris, the Philadelphia 76ers superstar will be ready for a hostile crowd. He even took a shot at them by saying that Madison Square Garden in the playoffs is louder.

"I don't think it should be anything, but if it's more than that, I embrace it. I don't think you can get worse than playing in New York in the playoffs," Embiid told The Athletic.