Embiid Remains Patient, No Timeline for Return to 76ers
Philadelphia 76ers center Joel Embiid is taking a patient approach to his recovery from knee surgery and has not set a timeline for his return to the court. While he hopes to return "sooner rather than later," the focus remains on a full and effective recovery, according to recent reports.
Partial Basketball Activities, Optimism for Training Camp
As of mid-July 2025, Embiid has resumed partial basketball activities. However, he has yet to engage in full on-court basketball drills. Despite this, Philadelphia 76ers President Daryl Morey and the team's front office are optimistic that Embiid will be ready for training camp in September 2025, with the hope that he will be available for the start of the 2025-26 regular season.
Former Teammate Reveals Extent of Embiid's Knee Struggles
Nicolas Batum, a former teammate of Embiid's on the 76ers, recently shed light on the severity of Embiid's knee injury during the 2024-25 season. Batum stated, "I saw his knee before every game, after every game. I have no idea how he could even walk." Batum's comments underscore the significant pain and physical toll Embiid endured while playing through the injury.
Timeline of Embiid's Knee Issues
Embiid's knee problems date back to February 2024 when he suffered a torn meniscus. He underwent surgery to address the tear and attempted to return for the playoffs. However, it was apparent that he was not at full strength.
In April 2025, Embiid underwent a second arthroscopic surgery on his left knee. This procedure aimed to resolve the lingering issues with his meniscus injury and improve his chances of being ready for the 2025-26 season. The current reports in July 2025 confirm that he is participating in partial basketball activities, but not yet at full capacity.
Key Dates: Training Camp on the Horizon
The Philadelphia 76ers are scheduled to begin training camp in September 2025. The team hopes that Embiid will be fully cleared to participate by then, setting the stage for his potential return to regular season action.
Stakeholders: Embiid, the 76ers, and Morey
Joel Embiid's health is paramount to the Philadelphia 76ers' success. The team is heavily reliant on his presence for their championship aspirations. In the 2024-25 season, Embiid's compromised health contributed to a disappointing year, where the Sixers finished with only 24 wins and missed the playoffs for the first time in eight years.
Daryl Morey, the President of Basketball Operations, remains optimistic about Embiid's recovery and his potential to contribute to the team's success in the upcoming season. The team also hopes that key players like Tyrese Maxey and Paul George, who also recently underwent knee surgery and is expected to be re-evaluated around training camp, can form a strong core alongside Embiid.
Past Tensions and Fan Concerns
Reports during the 2024-25 season indicated some tension between Embiid and the 76ers front office regarding the management of his injury. There were disagreements about whether he should play to condition or undergo surgery. Embiid's extensive injury history has understandably led to anxiety among fans. They are concerned about his long-term health and ability to sustain a full season and deep playoff run.
Impact on Team Strategy and MVP Eligibility
Embiid's recurring injuries have prompted questions about the Sixers' long-term strategy. Some analysts suggest the team may need to consider a dual-track approach, focusing on competing in the short term while also developing young talent in case Embiid's health continues to be a limiting factor.
Due to only playing 19 games, Embiid's limited appearances in the 2024-25 season made him ineligible to defend his 2023 MVP award because he did not meet the NBA's 65-game minimum rule for award eligibility.
