Philadelphia 76ers Star Joel Embiid Is Back

The Philadelphia 76ers star center will return to the court after missing most of the 2024 season. Embiid underwent arthroscopic surgery on his left knee in April and looks to be in great shape heading into the season. Head Coach Nick Nurse seemed optimistic about his chances to play in the preseason finale, after not getting many updates on the star throughout the offseason.

Chris Haynes reported today that Embiid is back and will hit the floor in tonight’s final preseason game against the Minnesota Timberwolves. If all goes well, it looks like Embiid will also be available for the Sixers’ season opener against the Boston Celtics next Wednesday. This will be Embiid’s first game back since February 2025 against the Brooklyn Nets.

Big Three Is Still Incomplete

While Maxey and Embiid are healthy, Paul George remains the missing piece that will complete the puzzle. George is participating in practice, but will not be ready for the start of the season. The big-time acquisition had knee surgery earlier in the offseason and is still working his way back. The good news for the 76ers is that George’s return appears to be imminent.

Shams Charania of ESPN reported that George is expected to miss the season opener, and his debut would come shortly in the regular season. Unlike last year, it appears that all the stars will play together early in the season as they attempt to establish continuity. This year, Philadelphia is heading into the season with better depth and can play at a faster pace.

The Eastern Conference will be up for grabs this year with injuries to Jayson Tatum and Tyrese Haliburton. The New York Knicks are projected to be the team to beat in the East, but the Philadelphia 76ers can give them a run for their money. Nurse and his staff will need to be careful with Embiid, making sure they manage him properly and give him the appropriate rest.