NBA Rumors: Sixers, Celtics, Lakers likely landing spots For Joel Embiid

Perhaps the most interesting subplot of tonight’s NBA Draft is where Joel Embiid is selected. The former Kansas center once appeared to be a lock for the No.1 pick, but a foot injury that will keep him sidelined for the next 4-6 months has his draft position as somewhat of a mystery.

Yahoo Sports’ Adrian Wojnarowski latest report gives Embiid three likely landing spots.

It certainly would be interesting to see Embiid taken by the Philadelphia 76ers,  given the team grabbed another injured big man, Nerlens Noel, in last year’s draft. If Philly takes Embiid, it’s a clear indication that their strategy isn’t to lose as many games as possible right now, but stack assets that will help them win big in the future is still alive and well.

More from Boston Celtics

• Predicting NBA’s Christmas Day Schedule: Lakers, Warriors highlight slate of postseason rematches
• Jaylen Brown signs richest contract in NBA history without a left hand
• Boston Celtics projected lineup and rotations heading into 2023-24 season
• David Griffin thanks rival Celtics for leverage in Anthony Davis trade talks
• NBA rumors: Damian Lillard trade becoming more trouble than it’s worth for Celtics

As for the Celtics at No. 6, they’ve long been rumored as a potential destination, with many believing that Boston GM Danny Ainge would never pass on a talent like Embiid if he falls to him.

Seeing the Los Angeles Lakers on this list is made even more noteworthy by the fact that Embiid tweeted “I’m a Laker” on Thursday morning. Though, Embiid clarified the tweet came from his friend, not him, it’s at least worth mentioning here.

Embiid might be the biggest high-risk, high-reward guy in tonight’s NBA Draft, so where he lands and doesn’t land could impact the entire league’s landscape for years to come.

Draft Express‘ lastest mock draft has Embiid heading to the Sixers at No. 3, and they rank him as the top overall prospect in the draft class.