Joel Embiid is working toward a return this season, but his comeback faces a major obstacle in the form of the demanding 2025-26 NBA schedule. The Philadelphia 76ers are set to have 16 back-to-back game sets, tied for the highest number in the league, making it especially difficult for Embiid to ease back into action without risking his health.
Uncertainty Surrounding Embiid’s Readiness
While Sixers head coach Nick Nurse has maintained a cautiously optimistic view of Embiid’s condition, he stopped short of confirming that the star center will be ready by training camp. That leaves lingering questions about Embiid’s timeline and how quickly he can handle the rigorous schedule ahead, especially given the physical toll of consecutive game nights.
The Toll of Back-to-Back Games on Embiid’s Recovery
The schedule heavily stacks the Sixers against intense challenges, as many second nights of back-to-back pairs pit Philadelphia against rested teams coming off a day off. This creates added strain on Embiid, whose knee surgery limited him to only 19 appearances last season before he stepped away to recover fully. Jumping straight into such demanding stretches risks setbacks that could derail his entire comeback.
Decisions Facing the Sixers and Their Coach
The grueling calendar forces critical choices for the Sixers organization. They must decide whether to start cautiously by limiting Embiid’s minutes early in the season or to sit him out of back-to-back games altogether to avoid aggravation of his injury. Coach Nurse has indicated the path forward will be complicated and without clear answers, further intensified by external pressure from fans and media after a disappointing 24-58 record without their MVP last season.
Implications for Philadelphia’s Season and Future
The stakes are high, as any early setback for Embiid could disrupt the entire campaign for Philadelphia. The franchise’s hopes hinge on Embiid’s successful return to form, but the current schedule challenges their ability to protect their centerpiece player. Although Nurse and the team have expressed hope and positivity recently, the demanding back-to-back stretches present ongoing risks that cannot be ignored.
Looking Ahead: Managing Risk and Expectations
Despite the difficulties, the Sixers may find ways to manage these taxing games carefully to safeguard Embiid’s health. However, the current setup appears far more daunting than many anticipated, placing enormous pressure on Embiid and the team. As the season approaches, the uncertainty surrounding Embiid’s durability and the weight of a brutal schedule create an urgent atmosphere for Philadelphia’s postseason prospects.
“It’s not just about health—it’s about preserving the big picture. If Embiid gets hurt again early, it could scuttle Philly’s entire season.” —Nick Nurse, Head Coach