The Philadelphia 76ers are starting their new season on a challenging note despite the excitement surrounding their offseason acquisitions. Star free agent signing Paul George will miss the season opener due to recovery from a bone bruise sustained during the preseason. Additionally, Joel Embiid will also be sidelined against the Milwaukee Bucks, and potentially in the following game, as he undergoes management for a left knee issue.
Fans are understandably frustrated with Embiid’s absence, which has been shrouded in a lack of clear communication. This situation has caught the attention of the NBA, prompting reports from ESPN’s Shams Charania indicating that the league may initiate an investigation into Embiid’s participation status.
The league’s concern stems from the possibility that Embiid is being held out of a marquee, nationally broadcast season opener for additional rest, instead of for an injury-related reason. The NBA has tightened restrictions on resting star players, suggesting that it intends to enforce these rules as the season commences.
Currently, the Sixers have announced that Embiid is responding positively to his tailored recovery plan and is anticipated to increase his on-court activities, including scrimmages, this week.
As questions linger about the seriousness of Embiid’s condition—whether it relates to his previous knee surgeries or other issues—fans and the league would benefit from greater transparency regarding his health status. Ensuring Embiid’s well-being is paramount, as the team aims to avoid putting undue pressure on him in order to preserve his readiness for the playoffs and beyond. Head coach Nick Nurse has emphasized their commitment to managing Embiid’s health, particularly during back-to-back games this season. However, open communication about his status could mitigate disappointment for fans and possibly ease the league’s concerns.
As the weekend approaches, the team plans to reassess Embiid’s condition, with hopes that this evaluation will provide clearer information on when he might make his debut in the 2024-25 season.