Joel Embiid’s season is in jeopardy, but the Philadelphia 76ers star has not been ruled out yet. Despite facing new setbacks in his recovery, the team is holding out hope.
According to Sixers head coach Nick Nurse, Embiid has not been ruled out for the remainder of the season, leaving the door open for a potential return. This comes after troubling news about the center’s ongoing knee issues.
NBA insider Shams Charania reported that Embiid has been consulting with doctors to find alternative treatment options after his current regimen, including injections, failed to show progress. The former MVP’s left knee continues to be a major concern, with swelling that has persisted for weeks.
Embiid has already missed a significant chunk of the 2024-25 season, playing in just 19 games. His struggles have become more evident as his performance has been compromised by the knee injury.
In a rare and concerning development, Embiid scored 15 points or fewer in back-to-back games for the first time in almost four years. This marks a significant dip from his usual dominant form. His averages for the season stand at 23.8 points, 8.2 rebounds, and 4.5 assists per game, far below his typical production.
The 76ers, who made a splash by acquiring Paul George in the offseason, entered the year with high hopes of a championship run. However, their 20-37 record leaves them 12th in the Eastern Conference, well outside the playoff race.
The team is now at a critical juncture. With the playoff picture slipping further away, the 76ers must make crucial decisions regarding Embiid’s treatment and future recovery plans.
Embiid’s health and return are key to Philadelphia’s prospects moving forward. The 76ers’ hopes rest on the star center’s ability to overcome this injury and get back to his MVP-level play. However, with limited time remaining in the season, every game counts as the team fights for relevancy in the postseason race.
