Positive update emerges on Sixers' Joel Embiid — but it's just a first step

Sixers’ fate hinges on Joel Embiid’s body

Philadelphia’s outlook for 2025–26 depends heavily on Embiid’s health. If he can stay relatively healthy, the Sixers have a real shot at competing. When healthy, he remains one of the most dominant two-way big men in the league: exceptional in post scoring, rim protection and defensive leadership.

However, the margin for error is narrow. A repeat of the past two seasons' frequent injuries, limited bursts and reduced explosiveness could turn Embiid into the kind of high-potential, high-risk big man who never reaches his peak because his body lets him down. Think of the many big men before him whose careers were cut short by chronic injuries.

If Embiid needs to follow a carefully managed schedule, avoid back-to-backs or undergo recurring maintenance, the Sixers’ ceiling drops significantly. Philadelphia would become a team that’s "below-elite but dangerous" rather than a true contender. And if he suffers a serious setback, it could push Embiid into the realm of "what ifs" — a dominant player with a big career filled with "if only” moments.

What if Joel Embiid can't stay healthy?

Let’s consider a more grim scenario. Embiid suits up but plays only intermittently, perhaps 50–60 games, due to recurring knee flare-ups. This portrays him as yet another high-risk center whose career is cut short by injury. The story shifts from “return to MVP form” to “can't stay on the floor.”

In that case, Philadelphia would probably adjust by relying more on guard Tyrese Maxey, developing a younger big man and designing the roster around depth and minutes management. Embiid would become a significant part-time player rather than the main focus. The broader discussion would turn to protecting his value and preventing catastrophic decline.

Such an outcome would not only impact the Sixers’ season but could also influence Embiid’s legacy: Will he be remembered as a star who shined brightly but faded early? Or is this latest rehab the one that finally succeeds?

The report is a hopeful sign, but it’s only a first step. Embiid’s return to action is a necessary but insufficient condition for Philadelphia’s aspirations. The Sixers’ entire 2025–26 fate depends on whether Embiid can regain durability. If he does, they have a chance to compete. If he doesn’t, and we’ve seen this pattern before, he risks becoming another great big man undone by wear and tear.