Joel Embiid's return to practice doesn't change anything for the Sixers
The Philadelphia 76ers have been without Joel Embiid for the past 21 games. The reigning MVP recently underwent surgery for a torn meniscus.
However, the veteran big man has given the Sixers a significant boost, as he returned to practice with the team on Sunday. He was participating in some non-contact drills as he continued to work his way back to full fitness.
Embiid's participation in non-contact drills is the first step in a long road to recovery. Yes, it's encouraging that the big man is back in the team facility. However, his return to practice shouldn't be confused with an imminent return to the court.
Rushing Embiid back into the rotation would be the worst-case scenario. NBA careers are short, and risking a player's long-term health for the chance of competing for a championship likely wouldn't sit well.
Unless Embiid is at 75% or more, it makes no sense to put him on the court, especially during the playoffs, where games operate with an increased physicality.
This season, head coach Nick Nurse has done a fantastic job of moving his team away from the heliocentric brand of basketball we grew accustomed to. He encouraged ball movement and teamwork. That change in approach has paid dividends following Embiid's absence.
Nurse should embrace that overall growth from his team and wait until next season to re-integrate Embiid.
Unfortunately, that decision may be taken out of Nurse's hands. The best thing the Sixers can do is allow Embiid to work through his recovery at his own pace, without expectations.
The pressure of being ready for the playoffs could force Embiid into over-exerting himself.
Right now, Embiid's return to practice is nothing more than a feel-good story. On the court, nothing is going to change, and that could be the case for the remainder of the current season.
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