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Joel Embiid's Ex-Teammate's Candid Reaction to 76ers Star's Knee Issues

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Reign Amurao | Last updated Jul 16, 2025 10:37 PM ET

Joel Embiid, the star of the Philadelphia 76ers, has suffered from several ailments during his career. Although he's often made a successful return, Embiid's knee injury has bothered him for a long time now, affecting his availability and effectiveness on the floor.

He suffered from knee issues last season as a result of tearing his left meniscus during the 2023–24 season. Many believed he was ready as he participated in the 2024 Paris Olympics and represented Team USA.

Unfortunately for the 2023 MVP, he ought to have worked out during his downtime. Embiid was then limited to just 19 games last season, averaging 23.8 points, 8.2 rebounds and 4.5 assists. His unavailability affected the team's performance and the 76ers missed the playoffs for the first time since 2018.

On Wednesday, ESPN's Dotun Akintoye released a feature on Embiid. In the piece, former 76ers forward Nicolas Batum revealed that he's seen the star's knee multiple times. The veteran French basketball star gave a candid reaction to the Cameroonian star's knee injuries.

"I was sitting next to him in the locker room," Batum said. "I saw his knee before every game, after every game. I saw his knee. I have no idea how he could even walk."

I wrote about Joel. https://t.co/Rm7IQvH8Bi
— Dotun Akintoye (@YNGNKL) July 16, 2025

Embiid wants to change the narrative and have a strong campaign for the 2025-26 season. The seven-time All-Star has proven that he's capable of being one of the best players in the NBA. However, his health has been affected gravely, limiting him in the past few seasons.

This offseason, he's focused on getting his body right before the season starts. The 2025-26 campaign could be a revenge year for Embiid.

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

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