Joel Embiid Out for Season: 76ers Face Major Setback

PHILADELPHIA, Pa. — The Philadelphia 76ers received disappointing news Friday as star center Joel Embiid has been ruled out for the remainder of the 2024-25 NBA season due to a left knee injury. The decision follows consultations with multiple doctors to determine treatment options for the persistent issue that has plagued him this season.

Embiid’s absence marks a significant loss for a team that has already struggled with a record of 20-38, having dropped nine straight games. The 2023 NBA MVP was limited to just 19 appearances this season due to recurring knee problems.

In announcing his shutdown, the team emphasized that the focus will now shift to “treatment and rehabilitation,” with a detailed recovery plan to be established later. The Sixers will need to find ways to cope without their franchise player, who has been a dominant force when healthy.

Guerschon Yabusele has emerged as a valuable alternative since Embiid’s absence. The 2016 first-round draft pick has averaged 10.6 points, 5.5 rebounds, and 1.9 assists in 54 appearances this season. Specifically, in the 28 games he started, Yabusele noted an uptick to 11.1 points, 6.3 rebounds, and 2.3 assists while shooting 49.1 percent from the field.

“I just try to do my best when given the opportunity,” Yabusele said after a recent game. “It’s unfortunate for Joel, but we have to keep fighting and find a way to win.”

Veteran Andre Drummond, who started in Embiid’s absence against the Knicks, is another option for fantasy managers, but his performance has been inconsistent. Drummond has been sidelined for 34 games this season, averaging just 6.9 points and 7.4 rebounds in 18.3 minutes. His ranking falls outside the top 250 in both eight- and nine-category formats.

“I know I need to step up, especially with Joel out,” Drummond said. “I have to be better for this team.”

Additionally, rookie Adem Bona is a name to watch as the 76ers continue their downward spiral. If the team decides to further evaluate their roster for the remainder of the season, Bona could see increased minutes.

While still mathematically alive for a play-in spot, analysts suggest the 76ers might benefit more from focusing on their draft positioning and the health of their remaining stars, including Tyrese Maxey and Paul George. Notably, if Philadelphia finds themselves outside the top six in this year’s draft, they risk losing their pick to Oklahoma City.

In the pursuit of bolstering their roster, Kelly Oubre Jr. (68 percent rostered) and Quentin Grimes (22 percent rostered) are potential candidates on the waiver wire that might provide some fantasy value to managers affected by Embiid’s injury.