Joel Embiid originally wanted to play with Kobe Bryant at Lakers: Report

Philadelphia 76ers star Joel Embiid has been with team since being drafted in 2014. Despite certain differences between Joel Embiid and team, player has denied all trade rumours during entire NBA 2019-20 season. In a recent interview, Joel Embiid revealed that before signing with 76ers, he initially wanted to join Los Angeles Lakers and play alongside late NBA legend Kobe Bryant before he retired. 

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Joel Embiid wanted to join Lakers to play with Kobe Bryant

During 2014 NBA draft, Joel Embiid was hoping to be seventh pick. However, Joel Embiid was picked third by Philadelphia 76ers after Andrew Wiggins and Jabari Parker. Milwaukee Bucks wanted Parker, and Joel Embiid did t want to play re. He even told his nt that Milwaukee was 'too corny' for his taste. Embiid had made it clear that he wanted to play for Lakers, and asked his nt to 'work his magic'. However, Joel Embiid was acquired by Philadelphia. LA Lakers went on to draft Julius Randle for seventh overall pick after 76ers selected Joel Embiid. Embiid missed most of his first two seasons due to a foot injury. He debuted in NBA 2016-17 season, year after Kobe Bryant retired from league. 

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This season, Joel Embiid is averaging at 23.4 points, 11.8 rebounds and 3.1 assists per game. He was shooting 53.2% from field, 55.6% from three-point line and 86% from free-throw line. He played his last NBA 2019-20 season game against Detroit Pistons before NBA suspension last week, where he scored 30 points and 14 rebounds. 

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NBA coronavirus: When will NBA return?

NBA is currently suspended indefinitely and could return in June. However, games could be played without an audience. Group practices have been banned, though players can practice individually and travel in rth America. Kevin Durant and three or players from Brooklyn Nets, Utah Jazz’s Rudy Gobert, Dovan Mitchell and Detroit Pistons' Christian Woods are NBA players confirmed to have coronavirus. Gobert testing positive almost a week ago was reason NBA was suspended earlier than expected. A day later, Dovan Mitchell and Christian Wood also tested positive.

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