Joel Embiid, the star center for the Philadelphia 76ers, is scheduled to undergo arthroscopic surgery on his left knee next week. On Friday, the team announced the surgery—which joint specialist Dr. Robert LaPrade performed—to address Embiid’s long-term knee problems. These issues have now been plaguing him for the better part of a year. The surgery should alleviate a host of issues that have caused Mims to struggle and miss time this season.
It’s no secret that Embiid’s ongoing knee issues have had a profound effect on his availability and overall performance. In February, he was declared out for the rest of the season as a result of these complications. Most recently, Embiid was awarded the 2023 NBA Most Valuable Player. Yet he has had a difficult time living up to the remarkable play he exhibited in previous years. He missed half his games, playing in just 19 of them this season. In those games, he averaged an extremely impressive 23.8 points, 8.2 rebounds, and 4.5 assists per game. This marks a considerable underperformance, particularly given his exceptionally high baseline.
The timeline for Embiid’s recovery appears optimistic. After the surgery, he is looking forward to a full recovery in about six weeks. This prognosis is life or death for him. The 76ers organization has made clear how badly they want to see their star player return to the hardwood.
Embiid’s injury history has been a point of contention and concern for Sixers fans, pundits and media members everywhere. In January 2024, he suffered a major blow while playing against the San Francisco Goldens. This injury limited his availability for the entire season. He made his return to action on November 12, against the New York Knicks. Sadly, he would play just four games that season before facing a recurrence of the knee and foot problems. In January 2025, he missed an entire month while he suffered from these chronic setbacks.
He has 4 years and more than $200 million left on his contract. His possible return would be huge for their postseason hopes.
Embiid has taken to social media to voice his displeasure at the way things are going for him right now. “How I was playing a year ago is not how I’m playing right now,” he said.
The Philadelphia 76ers have shown the lengths they are willing to go to help fully support Embiid at this difficult time. During the remainder of this season and beyond, they need to be proactive in game-planning his recovery. They prepare for his eventual return to the lineup.
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