The Philadelphia 76ers were at the center of the offseason conversation after two significant moves shook up the NBA landscape. The trade to acquire Jaylen Brown from the Boston Celtics and the signing of future Hall of Famer LeBron James created a roster that looked incredible on paper. However, could four players who typically played with the ball in their hands coexist on one roster? The 76ers answered that question, at least partially, in their opening-night win over the reigning champion New York Knicks.
Philly's new core of Brown, James, Joel Embiid, Tyrese Maxey, and VJ Edgecombe didn't just show it was possible; each player showed they've bought into a fully selfless style of play—and the results showed. The Sixers' 106-100 road win over the Knicks on ring night for New York came with a balanced attack, with all five starters attempting 10-plus field goals, scoring nine or more points, and everyone else filling the box score.
The style of play was especially unique for Brown and Embiid, and after the game, the latter made a declaration that proved he's more bought in than ever. Embiid spoke specifically about defense, stating he's going to return to his All-Defense form in a way that can "change everything" for the Sixers," as ESPN's Kris Rhim revealed.
"I think just we have the talent," Embiid said. "...I think a lot of it falls on me. I put it on me. If I want to be All-Defense like I used to be, that changes everything for our team. So if I can play that way every single night, which I will, changes everything."
This article originally appeared on For The Win: Joel Embiid makes vow to 76ers that 'changes everything' after opener