PHILADELPHIA — The Philadelphia 76ers have announced that center Joel Embiid will sit out the remainder of the preseason as part of a management strategy for his left knee. Embiid did not join the team for two recent away games, and the organization has emphasized that their priority is to adhere to a personalized treatment program aimed at ensuring his long-term health and performance this season.

As the preseason progresses, the 76ers have three remaining games, but teams are optimistic about Embiid’s return to the court for the regular season opener against Milwaukee on October 23.

At 30 years old, Embiid, who achieved Olympic gold with Team USA, recently secured a significant $193 million contract prior to the start of training camp. The 76ers have struggled to move past the second round of playoffs since 2001, largely attributed to Embiid’s recurring health issues impacting their postseason runs.

Throughout his career, Embiid has never managed to play more than 68 games in a single season and was restricted to just 39 games last year primarily due to knee surgery. His presence has proven crucial, as the 76ers boasted an impressive record of 31-8 when he played, equating to a strong pace of around 65 wins, in contrast to a disappointing 16-27 record when he was absent.