The absence of Joel Embiid due to left knee injury management and Paul George, who is dealing with a left knee bone bruise, is shaping up to be a significant storyline for the Philadelphia 76ers as they prepare for their opening-night game against the Milwaukee Bucks on Wednesday.
Reports indicate that the NBA is likely to investigate the situation concerning Embiid’s participation. ESPN’s Shams Charania has stated that the league is expected to initiate an inquiry into the Sixers regarding Embiid’s playing status.
On Tuesday, a Sixers representative mentioned that Embiid is responding positively to his personalized recovery plan and is anticipated to increase his return-to-play activities this week. However, the representative confirmed that Embiid will not participate in games this week and is scheduled for a reevaluation over the weekend.
Embiid previously dealt with a left lateral meniscus injury last year, returning at the end of the regular season and during the playoffs, where he averaged 33.0 points and 10.8 rebounds in the first-round loss to the New York Knicks. He also contributed to Team USA’s success, winning an Olympic gold medal over the summer.
During the Sixers’ media day on September 30, Embiid highlighted the importance of ensuring his health for the playoffs. Head coach Nick Nurse commented that Embiid has not experienced any setbacks. “I don’t know what to say to you,” Nurse said in response to questions about Embiid not being ready for opening night. “He’s in practice, he’s looking good, he’s progressing. He’s not quite ready yet. He’ll be ready pretty soon.”
The NBA has previously penalized the Sixers for failing to report injuries accurately in relation to Embiid. For example, prior to his return in April last season, the Sixers initially stated he was out but later changed his status to questionable just two hours before the game, resulting in a $100,000 fine due to the violation of injury reporting rules and the team’s history of similar infractions.