Joel Embiid's ongoing knee problems have cast a shadow over the Philadelphia 76ers' aspirations this season. After undergoing two surgeries on his left meniscus, both affecting the lateral side, Embiid's performance has significantly declined. His struggles have raised concerns not only about his health but also about the future of the franchise.
The 76ers found hope when Embiid returned to the court on February 4, contributing to a crucial win against the Dallas Mavericks. However, the impact of his injuries has been profound. In the 16 games that he played this season, Tyrese Maxey averaged 23.8 points per game (PPG) on 17.8 field goal attempts (FGA). Yet without Embiid for 34 additional games, Maxey's scoring surged to an impressive 28.8 PPG on 22.9 FGA.
Despite Embiid’s return, his statistics reveal a troubling trend. He is averaging just 16.1 points per game, marking his lowest output since his second season in the league, with an overall shooting percentage of only 42.9%. Moreover, he leads the team with 8.4 rebounds per game (RPG). His diminished performance has raised questions about his long-term viability as a cornerstone player for the 76ers.
Injuries have plagued Embiid throughout his career, and this season is no exception. He has received multiple injections into his knee aimed at promoting healing and recovery. Medical experts indicate that he still has options, including less invasive procedures to consider. These could encompass another meniscus repair or even a meniscus transplant. Additionally, a surgical procedure known as osteotomy might be on the table, where doctors break a bone to realign his body.
Embiid's physical challenges have not been limited to his knee. He experienced a bout of Bell's palsy during the playoffs, further complicating his ability to perform at peak levels. While he won a gold medal with Team USA, he struggled significantly during that campaign while wearing a bulky brace on his left knee. However, he did deliver a remarkable performance in the fourth quarter of the semifinal match against Nikola Jokic and Serbia, showcasing his talent even amid adversity.
The financial implications of Embiid’s injuries are also significant for the 76ers. His current contract lacks substantial injury protection provisions, leading to concerns about the future of the franchise should his knee issues be deemed career-ending. In such a scenario, the 76ers could apply for a disabled player exception, which would provide financial relief equivalent to the non-taxpayer midlevel exception.
As the season progresses, the 76ers must navigate an uncertain landscape regarding Embiid's health and their overall strategy moving forward. The organization faces tough decisions about how to support their star player while also planning for a future that may require adjustments based on his health status.
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