Joel Embiid’s Season-Ending Injury: A Deep Dive into the 76ers’ Challenges and Future Prospects
It’s a tough day for Philadelphia 76ers fans as the team has officially ruled out their star big man, Joel Embiid, for the remainder of the season. This decision comes after a tumultuous year filled with injuries and setbacks for the reigning 2023 MVP. Let’s break down how Embiid and the 76ers reached this point and what lies ahead for both parties.
Joel Embiid was on a historic scoring tear before a fateful incident on January 30, 2024, when Jonathan Kuminga of the Golden State Warriors accidentally fell onto his left leg. Up until that moment, Embiid had been scoring more points than minutes played, a feat not seen since Wilt Chamberlain over 60 years ago.
Following the injury, Embiid underwent a procedure on his left knee, which has been a persistent issue for him over the past year. Despite returning near the end of the 2023-24 regular season and participating in the playoffs against the New York Knicks, Embiid was not at full strength. His performance was further hampered by a bout of Bell’s palsy during the series.
Even so, Embiid managed to average 33.0 points, 10.8 rebounds, and 5.7 assists per game in that series. This performance gave hope that he would shine for Team USA in the Paris Olympics and be ready for the next NBA season. While Embiid did secure a gold medal, he struggled with a bulky knee brace, although he did have a standout performance in the semifinals against Nikola Jokic and Serbia.
Embiid’s return to training camp was delayed, and what was initially a short ramp-up period turned into weeks. He finally made his season debut on November 12 against the Knicks, by which time the 76ers were 2-8. Embiid didn’t play in a win until December 8, when he helped the team defeat the Chicago Bulls. The 76ers then went on a winning streak, going 7-2 with Embiid on the court, highlighted by a Christmas victory in Boston.
However, after a win against the Brooklyn Nets on January 4, the 76ers were 14-19, just a game behind the Bulls for the final East play-in spot. Embiid then missed a month due to a foot sprain and ongoing knee issues, returning in a win over the Dallas Mavericks on February 4.
Unfortunately, that was the last win Embiid participated in. The 76ers lost his final five games of the season, including a two-point loss to the Nets where Embiid watched the fourth quarter from the bench. The team is currently in an eight-game losing streak, struggling with Embiid on the court for the first time since his rookie year.
What to Expect from the 76ers for the Rest of This Season?
With Embiid officially out, the 76ers face a challenging road ahead. The team has stated its intention to keep fighting for a postseason spot, but this news marks a disastrous season for both Embiid and the franchise. The focus now shifts to Philadelphia’s top-6-protected first-round pick, a remnant of the 2020 deal that sent Al Horford to Oklahoma City for Danny Green.
The 76ers currently sit sixth in the lottery, giving them less than a 50% chance of keeping their pick. The question is whether they will lean into maximizing their lottery odds or continue to pursue wins. With star rookie Jared McCain already sidelined for the season, fans are left to hope for some lucky bounces in the draft lottery.
What is Embiid’s Timetable to Return to the Court?
Embiid has undergone two knee surgeries on his left meniscus, both on the lateral side. The first was in 2017, and the second in 2024. Despite hopes for long-term healing, the surgeries have not provided a lasting fix. Doctors are now considering more novel approaches, which could include another meniscus repair, a meniscus transplant, or an osteotomy to realign his body.
These options could require a lengthy recovery, potentially extending into next season. Embiid has already received various injections to promote healing, but there are still less invasive procedures he could try.
Where Do the 76ers Stand in the Lottery Race?
Philadelphia currently holds the NBA’s sixth-worst record at 20-38, with room to drop further. The 76ers can’t realistically catch the three bottom teams, but they could fall below the New Orleans Pelicans, who are 4½ games back. The Toronto Raptors are also a wild card, sitting 2½ games ahead of Philadelphia.
- Falling behind one team would increase Philly’s chances of keeping its pick from 46% to 64%.
- Finishing behind both New Orleans and Toronto would boost their chances to 81%.
How Does the Injury Impact Embiid’s Contract?
Unlike his previous contract, Embiid’s current deal does not have injury protections. He is owed $248.1 million over the next four seasons, all guaranteed. The only way for the 76ers to get cap relief would be if Embiid’s knee issues are deemed career-ending, allowing them to apply to have his salary removed from the cap sheet.
What’s the Effect on Any 76ers Free Agency Plans?
The 76ers are committed to $800 million in contracts with Embiid, George, and Maxey, limiting their flexibility. Their free agency plans will depend on the lottery and player options for Kelly Oubre Jr., Andre Drummond, and Eric Gordon. If all three opt in, the team will be $2 million below the luxury tax before free agency.
What Does This Mean for the Futures of George and Maxey?
Paul George’s tenure with the 76ers has been underwhelming, with his production dropping significantly. Meanwhile, Maxey has bounced back from a slow start and remains a key figure for the team’s future. The question is what the rest of the roster will look like around him.
Fantasy Implications of Embiid’s Being Ruled Out
Embiid’s absence opens up opportunities for other 76ers players. Maxey is expected to make the biggest statistical leap, projecting as a top-10 fantasy producer. Guerschon Yabusele is also likely to increase his production, making him a top-100 fantasy option.
Originally Written by: ESPN Insiders
