How should the 76ers move forward after Joel Embiid’s latest injury?

Much to the horror of Philadelphia 76ers fans, Joel Embiid left the team’s latest game against the Golden State Warriors on the road late after seemingly sustaining an awkward leg injury. While chasing a loose ball, Jonathan Kuminga fell and landed directly on his left knee which caused the reigning MVP to immediately scream in pain.

Not only did the 76ers lose their third straight outing, which pushed them to fourth in the East, but they will also likely miss Embiid for some time due to this latest development. He was already visibly far from healthy for this outing, and while an MRI has yet to be performed to determine the extent of his injury, there’s no arguing that the team has to exercise utmost caution moving forward.

How will the 76ers handle the aftermath of Joel Embiid’s injury?

For the meantime, Philadelphia will have to make do with what they currently have on deck. Paul Reed and Mo Bamba should be in line for much increased workloads, though their inconsistent play this season could prompt the front office to look for more proven help externally before the trade deadline.

The Sixers’ schedule doesn’t get any easier from here on out, and Embiid missing significant time could threaten their place in the standings especially with Tyrese Maxey also being sidelined due to a nagging injury. New York already eclipsed them last night, and considering that they’ll be facing Cleveland (twice), Miami, New York, Milwaukee, and Boston this February, this could very well a defining stretch for them this season.

Embiid is too important on both ends for the 76ers as the association’s leading scorer and one of its best defensive anchors. That being said, the team has a wide amplitude of bona fide scoring threats that should be enought o fill the void with increased volume, though defensively is where they could struggle as there’s simply no replacing Embiid’s presence and physicality down low.

Hopefully, the Philadelphia 76ers can stay afloat while they await the status of their best player. Stay tuned for more updates on Joel Embiid’s injury.