Philadelphia 76ers center Joel Embiid has been suspended for three games without pay by the NBA for shoving Philadelphia Inquirer columnist Marcus Hayes in a locker room altercation. The incident occurred after the 76ers' loss to the Memphis Grizzlies, following a critical column by Hayes that referenced Embiid's son and late brother. NBA Executive Vice President Joe Dumars emphasized the necessity of maintaining mutual respect between players and media, stating that interactions must never become physical, despite the personal nature of the column. Embiid, who has been sidelined this season due to knee management, was expected to return to play soon but will now have his debut delayed until at least November 12th. The altercation highlights ongoing tensions between Embiid and media coverage of his professionalism and conditioning. The suspension adds to the early struggles of the 76ers, who have started the season with a poor record.