The Philadelphia 76ers face uncertainty ahead of the upcoming season as star player Joel Embiid sets no firm timeline for his return due to ongoing knee recovery. Embiid, coming off knee surgery that limited him to just 19 games last season, is taking a cautious approach in hopes of returning “sooner rather than later,” while the team also monitors the recovery of Paul George, who underwent offseason knee surgery.
Embiid Emphasizes Patience to Avoid Rushing His Recovery
Following last season’s setbacks, Embiid has decided not to rush his rehabilitation, marking a departure from his past mentality. Addressing the situation in a profile with ESPN’s Dotun Akintoye, Embiid explained that he has not set a definite comeback date, instead prioritizing his long-term health and effectiveness. The team hopes he might be ready for training camp in September, a key milestone also being used to assess George’s progress.
Last Season’s Knee Issues and Impact on Performance
Pain in Embiid’s left knee caused him to miss the start of the previous season despite his strong finish after winning a gold medal with USA Basketball at the Paris Olympics. Notably, his defensive effort against Nikola Jokic in the Serbian game was a crucial factor. Embiid appeared in 19 games between November and February, averaging 23.8 points and 8.2 rebounds, but the knee pain eventually forced him to end his season early for surgery.
Focus on Long-Term Success Over Immediate Return
Embiid is clear about his priorities, emphasizing the importance of being fully healthy for the playoffs rather than returning prematurely. He is taking control of the recovery process and communicating directly with his team on his terms.
“We’re not going to push anything,”
Embiid stated, reflecting a shift toward prioritizing results over rushing back. He also acknowledged the business aspect of professional sports, pointing out that returning too soon while not at full strength would not help the 76ers win games.
“We’re not going to push anything,”
—Joel Embiid
“The only thing I’d say is — this is a business, It’s all about the results. … If I come back early enough and I’m still not myself, guess what? You’re not winning any games.”
—Joel Embiid
The Road Ahead for Philadelphia’s Title Aspirations
The 76ers remain one of the most difficult teams to forecast in the Eastern Conference due to these health concerns. If Embiid and George can return at full strength, Philadelphia could be a legitimate contender for the title. However, the uncertainty surrounding Embiid’s recovery timeline highlights the high stakes involved as the team balances patience with the desire for on-court success. The upcoming training camp will provide crucial updates on the health status of both players, shaping the 76ers’ strategy for the season.