Philadelphia 76ers star Joel Embiid has yet to make his season debut as he continues to manage a lingering left knee issue. Despite hopes that he would play in the team’s season opener, Embiid was unable to take the court in Wednesday’s 124-109 loss to the Milwaukee Bucks.
With the regular season just beginning, reports suggest that Embiid will also miss the upcoming games against the Toronto Raptors and the Indiana Pacers on Sunday. Embiid’s absence has raised concerns across the league, with the NBA reportedly planning to investigate the 76ers’ handling of his participation.
According to Shams Charania of ESPN, the investigation may focus on whether the team is following league protocols regarding player participation, especially given Embiid’s own statement that he no longer plans to play in back-to-back games this season.
The NBA’s 65-game rule, designed to ensure player participation in key games, puts teams in a tough spot. The 76ers, along with Paul George, are cautious about Embiid’s health to avoid risking further injuries. This seems reasonable, given Embiid’s recent history, as he only played 39 games last season due to ongoing knee issues.
Brian Windhorst Questions Joel Embiid’s Absence From Season Opener
In a recent episode of The Hoop Collective, ESPN’s Brian Windhorst stirred up conversation about Joel Embiid’s absence from the Philadelphia 76ers’ season opener, claiming that the star center isn’t actually injured. He claimed that Embiid’s absence may be more about precaution than any serious injury.
“I don’t have all the information, which is certainly possible. I strive to do my best but I don’t think Joel Embiid has an injury here. This is essentially maintenance, and I think he’s not ready to play,” Windhorst said.
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Embiid is coming off a season averaging 27.9 points, 11.2 rebounds, and 3.6 assists. Despite the stellar season, his lingering injury kept him out of the MVP run.
Also Read: Former NBA Champion Drops F-Bomb On 76ers Star Joel Embiid For Not Playing Back-To-Backs
