### ESPN's David Dennis Jr. Seeks Accountability for Columnist After Embiid Suspension

In the aftermath of Joel Embiid's three-game suspension following a locker room confrontation with columnist Marcus Hayes, ESPN personality David Dennis Jr. has been vocal about the need for journalistic accountability. While Embiid has taken responsibility for his actions, Dennis is calling for the Philadelphia Inquirer and Hayes to do the same.

The altercation was sparked by a column from Hayes which was deeply critical and personal, leading to an emotional reaction from Embiid. Feeling disrespected after all he had done for Philadelphia, Embiid confronted Hayes, an encounter that escalated and required intervention from teammates and security personnel.

Despite the incident, Hayes continues to cover sports, having published three columns on the Eagles since the confrontation. With Embiid set to return against the Knicks, attention is now focused on how Hayes will continue his coverage of the 76ers and their star player.

On ESPN's "Around the Horn," Dennis discussed the league's decision to suspend Embiid. "The league absolutely has to suspend Embiid," Dennis said, emphasizing the necessity of maintaining a standard where players do not physically confront journalists.

However, Dennis also questioned the responsibility of the journalist and his publisher. "We've seen what the NBA has done to Embiid; we've seen the punishment," Dennis said. "My question, then, is what about the journalist? What about the Inquirer? There is a long list of people who approved something that disgusting that's being put on paper. And something needs to be done about that."

Dennis argued that the inflammatory content was included intentionally to provoke a reaction from Embiid and questioned the editorial decisions that allowed the publication of such a piece. He stressed the need for some form of accountability, whether through revoking credentials or issuing an apology.

Although the NBA's ability to influence journalistic practices is limited, Dennis believes that responsibility should fall to the Philadelphia Inquirer and those within the journalistic community. As the situation continues to develop, many will be watching closely to see how Hayes and the Inquirer choose to respond.