Joel Embiid's latest setback is a hammer blow to 76ers

Daryl Morey swung for the fences this summer, adding Paul George to the Philadelphia 76ers roster. The hope was that George could elevate Nick Nurse's team into championship contention. On paper, the Sixers had an elite player at the guard, wing and big positions.

However, George's addition didn't come without risk. Both he and Joel Embiid have struggled for availability in recent years. Therefore, there was no guarantee Nurse would have a fully healthy roster available for a significant period of time. Unfortunately for Sixers fans, that concern has quickly become a reality.

Embiid has played just 13 games this season. He has been dealing with a string of injuries, which have sidelined him as the Sixers have stumbled into the 11th seed in the Eastern Conference. Right now, there's no guarantee Philadelphia will make the playoffs, let alone contend for a championship. 

On Friday, the Sixers announced Embiid, who has missed the last six games, would be sidelined for another seven to 10 days. He reportedly experienced swelling in his knee after a workout session. His absence could now extend close to the All-Star break.

To make matters worse, George has yet to reach the level required of him. He's averaging 17.2 points, 5.9 rebounds and 4.7 assists, but those numbers aren't good enough, especially without Embiid on the court to help cover up the gaps. 

Losing Embiid for another week or more is a hammer blow for the Sixers. Their ability to secure postseason basketball is slipping away with each passing defeat. Furthermore, Nurse's ideal starting five haven't had enough time together — they are not forming championship habits.

Philadelphia's struggles this season aren't what Morey would have envisioned after a strong summer of recruitment. Still, the risk was clear to everyone. Embiid is always going to be an injury concern, and that drastically lowers the Sixers' championship ceiling, likely for the entirety of his time with the franchise.