Joel Embiid’s absence due to left knee injury management and Paul George’s absence due to a left knee bone bruise are the main topics for the Philadelphia 76ers as they prepare for their opening night game against the Milwaukee Bucks on Wednesday.
Reports suggest that the NBA is considering an investigation into the 76ers regarding Embiid’s participation. ESPN’s Shams Charania stated that the league may begin looking into the situation later this week.
A Sixers official mentioned on Tuesday that Embiid is responding positively to his tailored recovery plan and is anticipated to increase his return-to-play activities this week. However, the official confirmed that Embiid will not participate in games this week and will be re-evaluated over the weekend.
Embiid dealt with a left lateral meniscus injury last season and returned for the final stretch of the regular season and playoffs, where he averaged 33.0 points and 10.8 rebounds during the first-round series against the New York Knicks. His summer included winning an Olympic gold medal with Team USA basketball.
During the Sixers’ media day on September 30, Embiid stressed the importance of prioritizing his health for the postseason. Head coach Nick Nurse commented on Tuesday that Embiid has not experienced any setbacks.
“I don’t know what to say to you,” Nurse said when questioned about Embiid’s readiness for the opening game. “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 violation of injury reporting rules concerning Embiid. Shortly before his return in April last season, the team initially listed him as out before changing his status to questionable just two hours before the game, resulting in a $100,000 fine for failing to accurately report his availability and for their history of similar violations.