Joel Embiid‘s persistent knee problems have once again cast a shadow over the Philadelphia 76ers‘ plans for contention, and league insiders are beginning to express serious doubts about his long-term availability.
Despite a recent surgery and a brief Olympic appearance, the center’s recovery trajectory continues to raise concern inside and outside of the organization, as they target an NBA championship.
During the 2023/24 season, the 31-year-old missed significant time due to a torn lateral meniscus in his left knee, which required surgery, and although he returned for a short stint late in the regular season and competed in the playoffs, his performance was visibly diminished.
In total, the reigning 2022/23 MVP managed to play only 39 games during the campaign, sparking fears about his durability at a critical time for the franchise and those concerns intensified when he experienced swelling and discomfort in the same knee and was pulled after 19 games.
The Sixers declared him “medically unable to play,” and the All-Star underwent yet another knee operation in April in hopes of addressing the lingering damage. Since then, signs of recovery have been inconsistent.
According to league sources there is growing skepticism that Embiid will be ready for the start of training camp – with preseason due to begin in October against the New York Knicks.
“The common word associated with Embiid and his health this offseason is that things are bad,” one executive said to ClutchPoints, sparking fears for his long-term viability for the franchise.
Will the 76ers keep Embiid beyond his current contract?
The severity and persistence of Embiid‘s knee troubles have sparked comparisons to players like Kawhi Leonard, whose similar knee complications have disrupted multiple seasons.
The extent of the situation is so great that some league rivals are even wondering if whether Philadelphia erred in extending Embiid’s contract in 2029, as he prepares to hit free agency.
“When you have a second surgery to attempt and fix the initial problem,” one member of an NBA team’s medical staff told ClutchPoints. “And then you continue to deal with delays and more complications, that’s never a good sign.
“Few players have been able to come back from multiple surgeries and injuries to the same part of their body, which is what Joel is trying to achieve.
“For him specifically, his injury history and knee issues go back to when he first entered the league.
“To even play at the level he has to this point is remarkable. Of course, everyone wants to see him back and 100 percent healthy, as the league is better with all of its stars on the court.
“The reality here is that the damage has been done, and none of us can get word on if it’s actually repairable.”
Internally, the Sixers remain publicly optimistic, expressing confidence that Embiid will return to MVP
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