On Saturday, Embiid joined his teammates for the first official practice of the season, taking passes from assistant coach Demetris Nichols and working through midrange drills before moving on to pick-and-pop sets. He even joined assistant Reggie Redding in a lighthearted half-court shooting contest—swishing his second attempt as the gym erupted in celebration.
Most importantly, Embiid went through full-court five-on-five scrimmages and a post-practice workout without needing treatment on his surgically repaired left knee. Notably, he wasn’t wearing a brace, and his slimmed-down frame stood out.
“I feel pretty good,” Embiid told reporters. “We’ve got a plan in place, and it’s day by day. There’s no timeline, just making sure everything is right before I come back.”
A Cautious Path After a Long Battle
It’s been nearly 18 months since Embiid tore his meniscus against the Golden State Warriors, the injury that started a cycle of setbacks. He pushed through the 2024 playoffs, appeared in the Olympics, and managed just 19 games last season before undergoing a second surgery in April.
The Sixers, head coach Nick Nurse, and president Daryl Morey all agree—there will be no rushing this time. Embiid’s return date is deliberately open-ended, dictated by how his body responds.
“This time, I’m going to listen to my body,” Embiid said. “In the past, I’ve forced things. I don’t want to do that anymore.”
Why the Sixers Need Him at Full Strength
Philadelphia is desperate to rebound from last year’s dismal 24-58 campaign. With the Eastern Conference wide open—Boston, Indiana, and Miami all missing key stars—the Sixers see a chance to climb back into contention.
But that hinges on Embiid being himself, not just available. Last season, he averaged 23.8 points and 8.2 rebounds, his lowest numbers in years, clearly limited by knee pain. His defense in pick-and-roll coverage and rim protection also suffered.
“We need him healthy, not just playing,” Nurse stressed. “His body didn’t let him last year. If we’re even having conversations about managing his minutes, it means he’s healthier than he was.”
A Glimpse of Hope
For now, Embiid seems more at peace than he has been in years. Instead of looking frustrated, he’s smiling, dunking casually after practice, and sounding optimistic.
“I’ve been unlucky with injuries, but I can’t give up,” he said. “I’m hopeful this year will be different. I feel good.”
If Embiid returns anywhere near his MVP form, the Sixers will have the depth and talent to challenge the East’s elite. But until then, patience remains the game plan.