Joel Embiid Returns in 76ers Loss to Knicks After Injury, Suspension

Posted : 13 November 2024

Joel Embiid's long-awaited season debut finally took place on Tuesday night at Wells Fargo Center, marking the start of his regular season campaign after missing the first nine games. Embiid had been sidelined to manage a left knee injury and serve a three-game suspension for an altercation with a reporter.

Despite his return, the superstar centre faced a challenging performance in a 111-99 loss to the New York Knicks. Playing 26 minutes, Embiid recorded 13 points on 2-of-11 shooting from the field, though he was perfect from the free-throw line, making all eight attempts. Additionally, he grabbed 3 rebounds, dished out 5 assists, and added 1 block.

After the game, Embiid acknowledged that regaining full confidence in his knee, particularly in pushing off hard, would take time. He expressed that it was a mental hurdle he had to overcome, though he believed he could still perform at a high level without fully trusting the knee.

"I don’t know when," Embiid said, referring to when he would feel back to full strength, but added that he usually gets his rhythm back quickly. His performance showed glimpses of potential, but it was evident that he was still working through the physical and mental challenges of his return.

The Philadelphia 76ers, currently struggling with a 2-8 record, remain at the bottom of the Eastern Conference standings. As they prepare for a matchup with the undefeated Cleveland Cavaliers, the team is still uncertain whether Embiid or fellow star Paul George will be available.

While the 76ers had planned to prioritize the health of their veteran players over the season, their injury-riddled start has complicated those plans. Along with Embiid’s knee issues, George is dealing with a bone bruise, and Tyrese Maxey is recovering from a hamstring strain.

Embiid expressed that his team’s success hinges on getting healthy and playing together. With the return of key players like himself and George, and the eventual return of Maxey, Embiid is optimistic that once they’re all on the court, the 76ers can start turning things around. "Health is a big thing," he said, acknowledging that once the team is fully assembled, they’ll have a good chance of finding success. For now, the focus remains on building chemistry and getting back to full strength.

Meanwhile, the Knicks have remained healthy, with the same starting lineup and key players available throughout the season. In this game, much of the attention initially centered on Embiid’s return, but it quickly shifted to Karl-Anthony Towns. The Knicks forward, playing in his first rivalry game against the 76ers, had a standout performance, finishing with 21 points, 13 rebounds, and 6 assists.

His energy set the tone for New York’s offense, and while Embiid struggled to find his rhythm, Towns helped propel the Knicks to a comfortable victory. Despite the loss, 76ers coach Nick Nurse noted that Embiid's competitive spirit was evident, even as he battled through his rust and conditioning.

Joel Embiid Returns in 76ers Loss to Knicks After Injury, Suspension

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