Joel Embiid has been one of the most divisive players in the NBA playoffs, particularly following Game 3 against the New York Knicks.

During Game 3, Embiid grabbed Mitchell Robinson’s leg while he was on the floor. Many saw it as a filthy moment, but Embiid claims he was simply attempting to protect himself after Jonathan Kuminga injured him in late January by accident.

Joel Embiid has been one of the NBA playoffs’ most polarizing players, especially after Game 3 against the New York Knicks.

Embiid grabbed Mitchell Robinson’s leg on the floor during Game 3. Many regarded it as a disgusting moment, but Embiid insists he was only trying to protect himself when Jonathan Kuminga accidentally wounded him in late January.

Embiid doubled down on his claims, insisting that he was not attempting to harm anyone and was simply trying to protect himself. Whether or not Knicks fans believe the superstar center, Embiid is sticking to his story.

“That was unfortunate. “I didn’t mean to hurt anyone,” Embiid explained. “In those instances, I need to protect myself because I’ve been on the receiving end of far too many awful events. So, unfortunately, it was a physical game. They want to bring physicality. We can be physical, and we are. So it works both ways. I get bumped all over the place, but I keep playing and refuse to give up. I need to keep my attention focused and avoid wandering off. But, yeah, I just need to keep being myself, forceful and physical.”

The relationship between New York Knicks and Philadelphia 76ers supporters was already strained before this playoff series. It’s unlikely that things will calm down after Game 3.