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76ers Announce Joel Embiid News on Monday
© Bill Streicher-Imagn Images

Joel Embiid’s health is the single biggest factor in determining how far the Philadelphia 76ers can go in the 2025–26 season. His availability will define the year after injuries derailed the past two campaigns, limiting him to just 58 total games due to a torn meniscus and multiple knee surgeries.

For a team built around its superstar center, the lack of continuity has been costly, and the 76ers remain dependent on whether Embiid can stay on the floor.

This season, the right knee has continued to be a concern. Embiid has appeared in only six games, averaging 23.3 minutes while still producing at a high level: 19.7 points, 5.5 rebounds and 3.3 assists per game.

He shot 46.0% from the field, 32.1% from beyond the arc and 82.9% from the free-throw line, showing that even in limited action he remains one of the league’s most efficient scorers.

Philadelphia 76ers center Joel Embiid (21)Trevor Ruszkowski-Imagn Images

Embiid’s absence has loomed large, as he has now missed seven straight contests with lingering right knee soreness. However, on Monday, Embiid practiced fully with the team, a sign that his rehab is progressing. The 76ers confirmed he is close to in-game action hours later.

Philadelphia announced on their official injury report that Embiid was listed as questionable for Tuesday’s game against the Orlando Magic, marking his first upgrade in weeks (h/t Adam Aaronson of The Philly Voice). Whether he suits up immediately or not, the change in status is a significant step forward.

Embiid has spent ten seasons in the league, all with the 76ers after being selected third overall in the 2014 NBA Draft. Over that span, he has established himself as one of the league’s best big men. His accomplishments include two scoring titles, five All-NBA selections, three All-Defensive honors and seven All-Star appearances.

Embiid reached the pinnacle of individual success in 2023 when he was named league MVP, a season that showcased his dominance on both ends of the floor.

Despite all the accolades, Embiid is still searching for his first NBA championship. That pursuit continues to drive him, and it remains the defining challenge of his career.

For Philadelphia, his legacy is already secure as one of the franchise’s greatest players, but the quest for a title is what will ultimately shape how his era is remembered. Embiid’s status will continue to be monitored closely as the 76ers await his return.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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