Per our own Darren Heitner, Philadelphia 76ers center Joel Embiid is expected to switch his representation and sign with Leon Rose. He was formerly represented by Wasserman Media Group, who have represented him since he turned pro.
The third overall pick in the 2014 NBA Draft out of Kansas, Embiid has yet to play in the NBA due to a slew of injuries. This change in representation comes while he continues to rehab his foot after a second surgery sidelined him for this season. The team is not rushing him, but the plan is to finally get him on the court next season as he is thought to be a key player in the Sixers rebuilding process.
His rehab process has not gone as smoothly as the organization had hoped, given that he has had two surgeries and his refusal to wear the walking boot leading up to the second. In the Las Vegas Summer League this past year, Embiid was seen shooting jumpers and occasionally dunking, which led to speculation that he actually rebroke his foot instead of the original injury not healing properly. All the issues seem to be in the past now as Embiid has taken a “step in the right direction” according to team sources.
The 21-year-old Embiid is not eligible for an extension until 2017 and will be come a restricted free agent in 2018. Leon Rose will likely seek a large pay day for the 7-footer. He currently represents Carmelo Anthony, Kevin Durant, JR Smith, Karl-Anthony Towns, Chris Paul, and retired guard Allen Iverson among others.