Joel Embiid will undergo a procedure in the coming days to address a left meniscus injury, the
Philadelphia 76ers announced Sunday night. Sources close to the situation told ESPN that a possible return for Embiid this season has not yet been ruled out, though uncertainty remains until doctors complete the procedure.
The 29-year-old has dealt with injuries to both knees throughout his career, and this latest one comes at a crucial time for both him and the Sixers. Embiid, an All-Star center, currently leads the NBA in scoring, averaging an impressive 35.3 points per game. He was on the verge of joining the elite players by averaging at least 35 points, 10 rebounds and 5 assists in a season, a feat accomplished only by Wilt Chamberlain in 1961-62.
The injury occurred during Game 5 of the series against the Golden State Warriors, when forward Jonathan Kuminga fell on Embiid's knee in the fourth quarter, ending his remarkable streak of 22 consecutive games with at least 30 points, the fifth-longest in league history.
While Embiid is expected to miss an extended period of time, a precise timetable for his return has not yet been provided, pending post-procedure evaluation. Embiid's injury history, which includes left meniscus surgery in the 2016-17 season, adds an additional layer of concern for the Sixers and their fans.
Embiid's absence has had a palpable impact on the performance of the 76ers, who have lost 10 of 14 games played without his presence this season. Philadelphia, currently with a 30-18 record, ranks fifth in the Eastern Conference, evidencing Embiid's importance to the team. The Sixers have maintained an outstanding 26-8 record with Embiid on the court this season.
With 34 games played thus far, Embiid will fall noticeably short of the 65-game minimum required to be eligible for postseason awards, leaving the 76ers with the challenge of facing the playoffs without their top star for a significant portion of the regular season.
