Joel Embiid hasn’t played a game for his Philadelphia 76ers for a month as he recovers from knee surgery.
But according to the reigning MVP, he is hoping to return to the team by the end of the season.
“That’s the plan,” Embiid said when asked by Keith Pompey if he’ll be returning in 2023-24.
Embiid said that any return is contingent on his progress and evaluations by the medical staff but made it clear that he really wants to suit up as soon as he can, as long as it’s safe.
#Sixers center Joel Embiid on coming back to play this season: pic.twitter.com/3toWaFwzlf
— Keith Pompey (@PompeyOnSixers) February 29, 2024
Embiid was then asked why he is trying to come back this season instead of getting as much rest and recovery as possible and simply joining his team again at the start of next season.
Embiid said this situation is similar to the one he faced a few weeks ago when he pushed through injuries because he really wanted to play.
Embiid has a strong desire to lead his team and help them win and that is why he wants to be back as soon as possible.
The Sixers have definitely missed Embiid during his time away and have slipped down to the sixth seed in the East, currently holding onto a 33-25 record.
They are still in playoff contention, which means if Embiid comes back and plays very well, they will earn a place in the postseason.
Still, some fans are concerned that Embiid will come back only to hurt himself again, causing perhaps even more serious harm that will keep him away from the team for even longer.
It’s clear that the 76ers need Embiid but they need him healthy, which means that both he and the team will have to be very careful about his return.
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Insider Reveals Potential Joel Embiid Return Date
