Why Isn’t Joel Embiid Playing in NBA Preseason?

The 76ers are following a meticulously planned, day-by-day recovery strategy. Team President Daryl Morey confirmed the organization is not setting public expectations and is instead following strict medical advice. The risk of playing him in preseason games far outweighs the reward, especially given his limited action last year. He appeared in only 19 games during the 2024-25 season before being shut down, making a cautious return paramount.

This decision is part of a broader load management philosophy for a veteran star with a significant injury history. Head coach Nick Nurse expressed hope that there would actually be playing time to manage this year, a stark contrast to last season, where Embiid was simply unable to play. The focus is entirely on his long-term health and ensuring he can contribute consistently when the games truly matter.

When Was the Last Time Joel Embiid Played in the NBA Preseason

The last time Joel Embiid participated in an NBA preseason game was in 2023. During that preseason, he logged a total of 33 minutes in a single appearance. His involvement in exhibition games has become increasingly rare as he has progressed through his career and dealt with various physical setbacks, making his 2023 outing his most recent preseason action.

This marks a significant shift from the beginning of his career. Earlier on, Embiid was a regular preseason participant, suiting up for 12 total games across three consecutive seasons. Since establishing himself as the team’s superstar, his preseason activity has dropped dramatically. Over the course of five separate preseason runs, he has made only six total appearances, reflecting the team’s evolving protection strategy.

He was also held out of the entire 2024 preseason. That decision came even after he had participated in the Paris Olympics with Team USA that same summer. The organization’s consistent choice to prioritize rest and rehabilitation over preseason reps demonstrates a clear and ongoing pattern. Preseason games are now considered an unnecessary risk for their most valuable asset.

When might he return

The timeline for Joel Embiid’s return to game action remains deliberately vague. There is no definitive date set for his regular-season debut. The team and player are committed to a cautious, step-by-step approach that relies on how his body responds to increased activity. The October 22 regular season opener is a potential target, but it is not a guaranteed milestone.

According to reports from insiders like Shams Charania, even the 76ers themselves do not have an exact date for his return. Embiid has begun some limited on-court work, but he has not yet been cleared for full-contact basketball activities. Managing post-activity swelling in his knee is a key part of the process. His return will be dictated by his body’s feedback, not a predetermined schedule.

This uncertainty also affects fellow star Paul George, who is recovering from his own knee procedure. The team’s championship aspirations hinge on both players returning to health. The organization is prioritizing a fully healthy Embiid for the playoffs over having him available for every single regular-season game. His return will be a gradual process, with the team likely to be extremely conservative with his minutes upon his initial comeback.