Joel Embiid's fitness has been a constant worry for the Philadelphia 76ers this season. The former league MVP has played just five times so far as the Sixers have made a 7-15 start.
Things seem to be looking up though. The 76ers have found some form lately and are on a 4-1 run. On the other hand, Embiid put in the best performance of his season in his return game against the Chicago Bulls.
Embiid had to spend several games on the sidelines due to swelling in his knee but put up 31 points, 12 rebounds, 4 assists and 2 blocks in the win against the Bulls.
Many Sixers fans had been wondering how Embiid's body would react after the game though. Fortunately, there seems to be good news in that regard.
According to Kyle Neubeck on X on Wednesday: "Nick Nurse said Joel Embiid went through the full practice today and his body has responded well since playing 33 minutes on Sunday vs. Chicago."
That will be music to the ears of Philly fans. No doubt Embiid has been a topic of discussion lately and many have even called for him to be traded. But there is no doubt that the 76ers are a better team when he is on it.
The only issue with Embiid is his constant struggle to remain fit. The Sixers are seemingly looking to manage his load as much as possible over the regular season so that he makes it to the playoffs healthy. Let's see if that strategy works out.
There are many who have also suggested that Embiid's knees are done and we will never see him at his best again. Clearly, he has a lot of doubters and critics that he needs to prove wrong. Hopefully that gives the 30-year-old some extra motivation, if he does need any.
Related: Philadelphia 76ers: Brutal LeBron James Claim Made About Joel Embiid's Knee
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This story was originally published December 11, 2024, 10:41 PM.