Philadelphia 76ers center Joel Embiid, who underwent arthroscopic surgery on his left knee last April, is reportedly advancing well in his recovery and is expected to be ready around the start of training camp, according to Daryl Morey, the team’s president of basketball operations. This news raises hopes for the 76ers as they prepare for the upcoming season.

Injury History and Last Season’s Challenges

Embiid’s knee issues have significantly limited his playing time, restricting him to just 19 games last season. Earlier, in February 2024, Embiid underwent meniscus surgery on the same knee, sidelining him for several months before he managed to return for the final part of the regular season and the playoffs. Despite his return, it was evident that the knee affected his performance during the 2023-24 season.

Performance Decline and Team Implications

In the 2023-24 season, Embiid averaged 34.7 points per game on 52.9 percent shooting, along with 11 rebounds and 5.6 assists. However, those numbers fell in the 2024-25 season to 23.8 points on 44.4 percent shooting, 8.2 rebounds, and 4.5 assists per game. The drop underscored how much the knee trouble impacted his effectiveness on the court.

The 76ers, who reached the second round of the playoffs between 2021 and 2023, saw their postseason hopes cut short in 2024 when they were eliminated in the first round. Their record declined sharply last season, ending at 24-58, a significant decline for a team aiming for a championship run. The status of Embiid’s health is key for their aspirations.

Outlook for the Season and Embiid’s Role

Philadelphia’s chance to rebound hinges heavily on the health of their 2022-23 NBA MVP. With Morey expressing confidence that Embiid will be ready by training camp, the star center will have valuable time to regain his form before the regular season begins. This progress offers a hopeful sign for the 76ers and their fans, as a fully healthy Embiid would dramatically improve the team’s prospects.