For most of the season, Philadelphia 76ers big man Joel Embiid has dealt with injury problems, largely in his knee. So far, he has only appeared in 19 games for the team. Recently, reports surfaced that said Embiid would need another surgery on his knee in the offseason. However, ESPN’s Shams Charania recently reported that Embiid and the 76ers are exploring options for his knee. Additionally, Charania noted that the team was hoping that Embiid’s condition would naturally improve, though it has not.
“Both sides have hoped for progress in Embiid’s condition, but his determination to play and current treatments — including regular injections, sources said — have not led to any improvement,” Charania wrote.
Furthermore, according to Charania, the 76ers are ruling Embiid out for Monday night’s game against the Chicago Bulls as they explore more options.
Joel Embiid has been ruled out tonight against the Chicago Bulls as he and the 76ers consult with doctors and collaborate with specialists after he completed new imaging today, sources tell ESPN. https://t.co/wLtlWkcb9j
— Shams Charania (@ShamsCharania) February 24, 2025
On the year, the former MVP is averaging 23.8 points, 8.2 rebounds, and 4.5 assists.
Philadelphia 76ers, Joel Embiid Receive Concerning Injury Update
76ers Cannot Win With Joel Embiid?
Despite his talent and dominance, many have doubted the 76ers’ ability to build a consistent winner around Embiid. This includes basketball legend Julius Erving. Recently, the 76ers great spoke about Embiid and his injuries. In doing so, he said he does not believe the 76ers can win with Embiid due to his lack of availability.
“You always say it’s not a guy’s fault if his body’s betraying him. But…that’s an excuse…you have to find a way”
NBA legend Dr. J gives his thoughts on Joel Embiid and the state of the 76ers to @TheFrankIsola and @TermineRadio pic.twitter.com/jI2XvjYpXv
— SiriusXM NBA Radio (@SiriusXMNBA) February 19, 2025
“If he moves to playing one-third of the games, that’s not going to happen. And he just got a new contract. You always say it’s not a guy’s fault if his body’s betraying him. But that’s an excuse. When you’re running an organization and you’re trying to chase for championships, you’re trying to be the leader and inspire the other players, then you have to find a way,” Erving said.
In the Embiid era, the 76ers have yet to make a conference finals appearance. Furthermore, this season, they are 20-36 and own the No. 12 seed in the East. Despite many believing the 76ers would finish as a top team in the conference, they are now in serious jeopardy of missing the postseason completely.
The Last Word
There is a lot of basketball left this season, but it will be tough for the 76ers to make a postseason push. In addition to their spot in the standings, the 76ers are constantly dealing with a multitude of injuries. As it stands, it will likely prove too challenging for the team to climb the standings. However, the concern is about their future. Embiid is about to turn 31 in March and has already dealt with multiple devastating injuries. Hopefully for him and the team, they can find a solution soon.
Credit: Bill Streicher-USA TODAY Sports
