The Philadelphia 76ers are 6-4 to begin the season, and that is thanks to a few key players. Joel Embiid is one of those players. Despite his minutes restriction, Embiid has averaged 19.7 points per game, 5.5 rebounds, and 1.5 blocks.
Embiid has made an impact on the court, but he will miss some more time. Per ESPN’s Tim Bontemps, Embiid will not only miss Tuesday’s game against the Boston Celtics with right knee soreness, but he will also be evaluated by doctors.
Joel Embiid’s Injury History
GettyJoel Embiid will be evaluated by doctors for his right knee injury.
Embiid has been a regular on the injury report for the 76ers. The former first-round pick started his career with a foot injury that held him out for his first two seasons. His left knee has been a big problem, as well. The Kansas product is one of the more injury-prone players during his time in the NBA.
Embiid’s injuries have forced him to play fewer than 70 games in every season. In fact, the former MVP’s career-high in games played is just 68. In the past two seasons, Embiid has played 39 and 19 games, and this year is not looking much better for him.
If there is a silver lining, it is that his left knee is not the problem right now. His left knee has been the reason he has missed so much time in the past. But Embiid has two bad knees now, which is always a problem for someone of his size. The 76ers will be eagerly awaiting the news from the doctors, but things are not looking good for their star big man.
The 76ers Can Win Without Embiid
GettyTyrese Maxey is averaging over 30 points per game this year.
Philadelphia has had to learn how to play without Embiid in pretty much every season. This year, it seems the 76ers are more than ready to take on the challenge. Led by Tyrese Maxey, the team is currently 6-4 through the first 10 games.
Maxey is averaging 33.2 points, 4.9 rebounds, 8.2 assists, and 1.2 steals per game this year. At just 25 years old, the point guard is the veteran leader of the group. He has been the leading scorer in nine of the 76ers’ 10 games this year, and has scored more than 30 points six times. Kelly Oubre Jr, Quentin Grimes, and VJ Edgecombe are all averaging double-digit points, as well. These three players have been excellent role players behind the star Maxey has become.
An important note about the 76ers’ style of play without Embiid is that the team is averaging more points with him off the court. Philadelphia is also allowing fewer points in games Embiid has sat out. The margins are not large enough to prove a significant point, but it does show that the 76ers are more than capable of playing quality basketball with Embiid out.
Philadelphia should be prepared to play more than a few games without Embiid moving forward. With his injury history, it is not likely that this is only a single-game absence. However, when he is ready to come back, Philadelphia will welcome him with open arms.
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