The 76ers have typically struggled without Joel Embiid, but they've flipped the script so far this season, and the star center is relieved.

The 76ers were never equipped for a part-time Embiid before. There are still areas in which it will be a struggle -- most notably defense. But the 76ers have never come close to this sort of shot-creation depth, and that at least offers a pathway to building a viable offense without Embiid on the floor.

In his debut game, Embiid raised concern with limited movement on the court. He ended the game with only four points, six rebounds, and two assists in 20 minutes.

The Philadelphia 76ers hoped that Joel Embiid would be ready to start the 2025-26 NBA campaign. However, in a season-opener against the Boston Celtics, the former league MVP looked like a shadow of his old self — not just stats-wise but also physically.

Philadelphia 76ers star Joel Embiid labeled “done” by Bill Simmons after loss to Boston Celtics in season opener.

Philadelphia 76ers coach Nick Nurse and star guard Tyrese Maxey evaluate Joel Embiid in his return against the Boston Celtics.

In their ESPN debut, Charles Barkley and Shaquille O’Neal didn’t waste any time mocking Sixers star Joel Embiid. “What’d your boy do tonight, Chuck?” Shaq asked. “Not a lot,” Barkley dryly responded.

While Victor Wembanyama was dazzling the NBA world on Wednesday night, you might have missed some other developments from the season's first full slate.