The Philadelphia 76ers’ championship hopes have taken a devastating hit as Joel Embiid is officially out for the rest of the 2024-25 season. The reigning MVP, who had been dominating with historic efficiency, is once again sidelined— this time due to a lingering left knee issue. His absence raises major concerns about the team’s playoff chances and his long-term durability.
How did Joel Embiid’s knee injury occur?
Joel Embiid’s troubles began on January 30, 2024, when Golden State Warriors forward Jonathan Kuminga inadvertently fell onto his left leg. Up until that point, Embiid was on an offensive tear, scoring more points than minutes played. After that moment, he underwent surgery soon after but struggled with lingering pain and swelling, ultimately leading to the team’s decision to shut him down for the remaining season.
Embiid never fully regained form. His participation in the Paris Olympics, where he helped Team USA secure gold, was slightly optimistic, but his play was clearly hampered by a bulky knee brace.
What is the recovery status of Joel Embiid?
Joel Embiid. Image via Brandon Dill/ AP
This is not the first time Embiid has faced significant injury setbacks. Since being drafted third overall in 2014, he has missed entire seasons, undergone multiple surgeries, and endured a huge list of ailments, including stress fractures, torn ligaments, orbital fractures, and tendinitis.
“We are working with medical experts to determine the exact treatment plan and will update media when we have more information,” the 76ers said in a statement, amid the uncertainty surrounding Embiid’s future in the Philadelphia 76ers. “The team and specialists will continue working with Joel to ensure the best path forward for his long-term health and performance,” the statement added.
Embiid has already undergone two surgeries on the lateral meniscus of his left knee, doctors initially believed playing through the pain would strengthen the area over time. Instead, his knee has continued to swell unpredictably.
Is Joel Embiid’s career in jeopardy?
The retirement speculation of the seven-time NBA All-Star looms, but he has not publicly indicated that he is considering stepping away from the game. However, history shows that big men dealing with chronic injuries have often been forced into early exits. Former No. 1 picks like Yao Ming and Brad Daugherty saw their careers cut short by recurring health issues, while others, like Bill Walton, reinvented their playing style to extend their time on the court.
At his 30s, Embiid still has years left on his contract, but his ability to perform at an elite level is now in question. For the 76ers, the loss of their franchise centerpiece has derailed their season, as they currently find themselves in a brutal losing streak, barely clinging to playoff hopes.
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The basketball world has been monitoring Embiid’s injuries this season. It is no secret that the Sixers’ struggle was caused by his absence. Still, he remains one of the standouts. Embiid is currently averaging 23.8 points, 8.2 rebounds, and 4.2 assists.
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