Philadelphia 76ers center Joel Embiid appears poised for a comeback from knee surgery as training camp kicks off this September.
After an injury-marred season limited him to just 19 games, Embiid underwent arthroscopic surgery in April to address issues with his left knee. Despite these difficulties, the two-time NBA scoring champion is on a determined path to recovery.
In a recent conversation with Embiid, Team President Daryl Morey expressed optimism about the All-Star’s rehabilitation process. Ahead of the NBA draft—where the 76ers selected Baylor guard VJ Edgecombe as the third overall pick—Morey noted, “He’s very engaged, attacking rehab. He’s doing everything he can to be out there. Meeting with his surgeon went well, and to borrow from NASA, everything is nominal.” Morey added that these positive updates are expected to maintain their trajectory.
The 76ers have an early start to this year’s training camp due to preseason matchups against the New York Knicks during the Abu Dhabi Games in early October. Embiid, now 31, is anticipated to participate fully in this camp. “Things are on track to be ready right around there,” Morey reassured fans.
The setback began when Golden State’s Jonathan Kuminga landed on Embiid’s leg in early February 2024, leading to meniscus surgery. Although he made a return for the playoffs, his performance was hindered by lingering effects from his injury. Ultimately, he was sidelined for the remainder of the season in late February after averaging 23.8 points, 8.2 rebounds, and 4.5 assists.
In a season beset with injuries, Embiid also faced a three-game suspension for a confrontation with a media member. Since winning the NBA MVP title during the 2022-23 season, he has participated in merely 58 regular-season games alongside seven play-in tournament or playoff games.
Similar to Edgecombe, the path to the NBA for Embiid began as a third overall draft pick back in 2014. Even then, injuries were a familiar hurdle; a stress fracture in his foot kept him benched for two full seasons upon his initial selection. Throughout his career, various injuries followed, including a bone bruise, meniscus tear, orbital fracture, sprained shoulder, tendonitis, torn ligaments, and even Bell’s palsy.
Embiid acknowledged the psychological toll these injuries have taken, admitting his battles with depression and seeking therapy as a result. “It’s hard when you’re in those moments not to feel bad about yourself,” he stated in December. “Especially when you know who you are and what you can accomplish. I’ve learned to try and stop feeling bad about myself and live day by day, focusing on positivity and the good people around me.”
In addition to Embiid, the 76ers also saw challenging seasons from former All-Stars Paul George and Tyrese Maxey, concluding with a 24-58 record under the guidance of coach Nick Nurse.
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