76ers’ Embiid Out for Season Amid Knee Issues

PHILADELPHIA (AP) — Philadelphia 76ers center Joel Embiid will miss the rest of the 2024-25 season due to ongoing issues with his left knee, the team announced on Friday. Embiid, a two-time NBA scoring champion, has faced multiple injury setbacks this season and concluded a series of tests earlier this week that labeled him medically unable to play.

The 29-year-old tallied an average of 23.8 points in 19 games this season, a significant drop from his recent three-year average of over 30 points per game. This season, the 76ers have struggled without their star, posting an abysmal 12-27 record in his absence.

“It felt good at times, it felt not as good at times,” said coach Nick Nurse regarding Embiid’s fluctuating health. “We’re evaluating options, including the possibility of further procedures.”

Embiid suffered a meniscus tear earlier in the season, which led to surgery in February 2024. Despite returning for the playoffs last year, he has not fully recovered from the injury, with his performance dwindling over the current season.

Following the announcement of Embiid’s absence, the 76ers face questions regarding their future trajectory. The team currently sits at 21-38 and must contend with extensive injuries and underwhelming contracts tied to aging players, complicating their overall roster strategy.

Team president Daryl Morey is facing critical decisions heading into the offseason, especially concerning Embiid’s long-term health and the potential impact on the team’s championship aspirations. “Not what we hoped,” Nurse reiterated, encapsulating the mood within the organization.

The 76ers secured Embiid to a three-year extension before the season worth $248 million, locking their franchise cornerstone into a long-term commitment. With financial flexibility compromised and the pressure mounting for a playoff push, the team is at a crossroads.

Embiid expressed regret earlier this season regarding his decision to play for Team USA during the Olympics, which might have hindered his recovery time. “We’re looking into every option,” he noted about his knee treatment plans.

The franchise’s need for success is magnified with the question of whether they can maintain competitiveness after adding substantial contracts for players like Paul George and Tyrese Maxey. Nurse acknowledged the ramifications of their current standings as the team looks ahead.

The challenges posed by Embiid’s injuries and the team’s performance raise concerns about their playoff viability and long-term success. As the regular season reaches its final weeks, the 76ers continue to navigate a tumultuous landscape in pursuit of both immediate and future victories.