Joel Embiid, the Philadelphia 76ers‘ franchise cornerstone, underwent arthroscopic surgery on his left knee following persistent issues that sidelined him for most of last season. The decision was made with hopes of ensuring a healthy start to the 2025–26 campaign. However, a recent update from The Athletic’s Tony Jones indicates that Embiid still hasn’t returned to on-court basketball activities.
“Joel Embiid still hasn’t returned to on-court activities, per @Tjonesonthenba. League sources tell The Athletic that Embiid still hasn’t returned to on-court basketball activities. That said, Morey and the front office remain optimistic that Embiid will be on the floor for the season opener,” reported NBA Central via X (formerly Twitter).
Despite the delay in his return to full basketball activity, optimism remains within the Sixers’ front office. President of Basketball Operations Daryl Morey expressed confidence in Embiid’s progress and in the roster’s direction heading into next season.
“I think we’re optimistic where things are at with Joel, and we are looking forward to next season,” Morey said, according to Jones. “We went in with the big goal of being more athletic among the group that we think will likely be on the floor. I think we have done that as well”.
The 2023–24 season was severely limited for Embiid, who appeared in just 19 games. Still, he managed to average 23.8 points, 8.2 rebounds, and 4.5 assists per game, although his 48.2% effective field goal percentage marked a career low.
Sixers may have found a bright spot in the Draft
While Embiid’s health remains the top storyline, Philadelphia may have discovered a potential breakout contributor in this year’s draft. With the No. 3 overall pick, the Sixers selected VJ Edgecombe—who wasted no time making a strong impression at the NBA Summer League.
In a narrow four-point loss to the Utah Jazz, Edgecombe put up an impressive stat line: 28 points, 10 rebounds, and 4 assists, along with two blocks and one steal. His performance offers promising depth for a squad led by Tyrese Maxey and may give the Sixers a valuable option should Embiid be unavailable to start the season.