Joel Embiid's persistent knee injury has raised concerns for the Philadelphia 76ers this season, as the star player continues to struggle with availability and performance. Having played only 19 games so far, Embiid's condition has become a focal point for the team as they navigate through the season.
Last week, the 76ers ruled out the MVP winner for an important matchup against the Chicago Bulls after Embiid underwent imaging on his troublesome left knee. "He did have some testing earlier today which ruled him out of tonight’s game," said 76ers coach Nick Nurse during his pregame media availability. Despite his absence being confirmed, Nurse was quick to assert, "Not at point at all," when asked if the team was prepared to declare Embiid's season over.
Embiid’s injury management plan was set well before the season began, with expectations of monitored absences. But as the season has unfolded, the reality has been stark; his knee has continued to swell, which has limited his effectiveness on the court. The injuries have become so significant, even basketball legend Julius Erving, also known as Dr. J, has weighed in on the issue. He noted, "You always say it’s not a guy’s fault if his body’s betraying him. But…that’s an excuse…you have to find a way. If he moves to playing one-third of the games, that's not going to happen. And he just got a new contract." Erving emphasized the need for the organization to find viable solutions for maintaining Embiid’s health amid their championship aspirations.
Statistically, Embiid has faced challenges this season, averaging 23.8 points, 8.2 rebounds, and 4.5 assists with shooting percentages of 44.4% and 29.9% from three-point range, both of which are career-lows. This contrasts sharply with his previous season where he displayed remarkable prowess, leading to the 2023 NBA MVP award. After the 76ers lost to the Boston Celtics last Thursday, Embiid expressed his worries, stating, "The way I was playing a year ago is not the way I’m playing right now. It sucks, but I believe I probably need to fix the problem, and then I’ll be back at this level, but it’s hard to have trust when you’re not yourself."
Recently, Embiid's condition was called back to the forefront of discussion as he also missed the entire fourth quarter of a close game against the Brooklyn Nets, raising alarms about his ability to compete at his previous level. Coach Nurse commented post-game on Embiid's absence, highlighting the importance of maintaining fluidity among the team on the court: "[The group on the court] had a good feel for the game at this point. Just wanted to let them roll with it." Despite the setbacks and questions surrounding his health, the 76ers remain hopeful for Embiid's return as they eye the postseason.
With just 25 games remaining on their schedule, the 76ers are still intent on clinching one of the spots for the play-in tournament. Coach Nurse reaffirmed the urgency of getting Embiid back on the court, saying, "We are playing and testing and trying to figure it out and go from there." The impending decisions about Embiid's care could influence not only the remainder of this season but also the franchise's outlook moving forward, especially with his recent contract extension tying him to the franchise through the 2028-29 season, which has significant financial commitments.
Embiid’s injury history raises reasonable questions among fans and analysts alike about whether the franchise can build around him effectively. The 76ers have yet to make it past the conference finals during Embiid’s tenure; similarly, they currently sit with disappointing record numbers, putting them at risk of missing the postseason—a bleak prospect for such high-caliber talent ambition.
Only time will tell if Embiid can overcome these injuries and return to form. The organization’s commitment to his health and future will be tested as they navigate not just the final stretch of the current season, but the overarching goal of championship contention. With so much at stake for both the player and the franchise, their next steps will be eagerly anticipated by fans, commentators, and the wider basketball community alike.