It is going to be an uphill battle for Martin to convince the Sixers by February's trade deadline that he is worth keeping, but that is not an indictment of the Sixers' perception of his abilities. Martin's contract — a two-year deal with a non-guaranteed second season — was specifically designed to make him an appetizing trade piece down the line.

The Sixers have been honest about their plan to make sure Embiid makes it to the finish line and is healthy for the playoffs.

This could just be a way to keep Embiid healthy for when the games count. But his injury history makes the news a bit concerning.