The Philadelphia 76ers are starting training camp, and there is no certainty on Joel Embiid’s status. ESPN’s Brian Windhorst said no firm answer is coming soon. The team is focused on his long-term health and getting him back to 100 percent. Embiid’s health is often uncertain, but this update feels crushing on top of the team's other depressing news.
76ers fans have seen Embiid looking slim, but they know not to buy in. He has played just 58 total games in the last two seasons and hasn't looked like himself since the 2024 Olympics. Supporters are wondering if they will ever see MVP Embiid again.
Windhorst left things wide open, and fans may hear more at media day. It honestly sounds like the Sixers don’t know what to expect. Embiid hasn’t been healthy in over a year. Assuming he will be soon would be a massive gamble.
Joel Embiid’s status is uncertain as training camp arrives
The seven-footer puts up monster numbers when on the floor. Even playing at less than 100 percent last season, Embiid averaged 23.8 points, 8.2 rebounds, 4.5 assists, and 0.9 blocks in 30.2 minutes per game. He was not himself, but teams struggled to stop him. His greatness keeps sucking fans in, but they are always left wanting more.
Embiid had surgery on his left knee and has been seen working out without a brace. Those were positive signs before Windhorst dumped cold water on them.
The Sixers are less than four weeks away from opening night. Windhorst’s quote makes it seem like fans still may not have clarity on Embiid then. Read it for yourself below.
“I know there is going to be a big focus on when Joel Embiid will play, but I am not sure you’re going to get a firm answer on that tomorrow or even in the near future.”
Do the Sixers even know when to expect Embiid? Fans knew he wouldn’t play back-to-backs, but it sounds like the former MVP may be saving himself in hopes of returning midseason and staying healthy for the playoffs. It would be a risky move, but Embiid may be reaching the end if he injures that knee again. The whole situation is difficult and has everyone trying to figure it out.
Joel Embiid hasn’t played since Feb. 22, and it doesn’t sound like he will be on the court again anytime soon. Add that to the list of depressing Sixers topics heading into the season. Jared McCain and Paul George are already injured. Quentin Grimes remains in free agency limbo. It has been an atrocious year-plus for the franchise, and the injury bug doesn’t appear to be letting up.
The Philadelphia 76ers need Joel Embiid healthy to be a serious title contender, but it may never happen. He is under contract through 2029 in what is verging on the worst deal in the NBA because Embiid simply can’t stay healthy. Stay tuned for updates, but it may be a while if Brian Windhorst is right.