Joel Embiid, the focal point and star of the Philadelphia 76ers, is once again grappling with health issues, particularly concerning his left knee. This season has barely begun, and the stakes are high, yet Embiid found himself sidelined for all preseason games and missed the 76ers’ opening contest against the Milwaukee Bucks. Fans eagerly awaiting his return might have to brace themselves for further disappointment, as he’s likely to miss at least the next two games.
This ongoing saga took a turn when Embiid announced that he would refrain from playing in back-to-back games throughout the season. A decision like this can be polarizing, and it didn’t escape the notice of former NBA giants Shaquille O’Neal and Charles Barkley. During a recent episode of TNT’s Inside the NBA, both criticized Embiid’s choice, implying it raised questions about his dedication to the game he loves. The opinions of these legends carry weight, and it’s easy to see how their remarks might sting for Embiid and his supporters. After all, how often do we see elite athletes pushed to the limits of their physical capabilities only for their commitment to be judged in such a manner?
Yet, not all voices were critical. Sports analyst Stephen A. Smith, known for his fiery opinions and strong insights, rallied behind Embiid. On his show, First Take, Smith responded passionately to Barkley and O’Neal’s critiques. “I can’t believe what came out of their mouth… I don’t understand how they can have a problem considering all the injuries he’s sustained?” he exclaimed, shedding light on the more serious side of Embiid’s condition. With a snappy buildup, he listed the staggering injury history that has plagued Embiid: “Joel Embiid has missed 329 games in his career. Foot, knee, health protocols, back, hand, face, ankle, shoulder, calf, hip, elbow, rib! Is there a part of the body that I missed? This dude has been hurt over every imaginable injury that you can find on the human body.”
This commentary is important because it highlights an often-overlooked truth in sports: injuries can define careers, and the physical toll can sometimes outweigh the passion for the game.
In providing a supportive backdrop for Embiid, head coach Nick Nurse also weighed in on the situation before the season opener against the Bucks. Nurse was quick to clarify any misunderstandings, stating that there was no new injury to report regarding Embiid’s knee. “The decision is really a collective effort,” Nurse explained, indicating that the welfare of Embiid is a priority shared across the organization’s spectrum—from the medical team to the front office. “I think if you want to point fingers at any one particular person, that’s not going to happen. Our medical team is first and foremost. Joel is there, our front office, myself—everybody’s weighing in to make what we hope is a better plan than it’s been.”
The path hasn’t been easy for Embiid. After undergoing surgery on his left knee in February due to a meniscus injury, he made a commendable return to the court in April. However, during the playoffs, troublesome mobility raised red flags, ultimately leading to him missing two crucial games due to the same recurring injury.
For fans, it can be disheartening to see their team struggle without its star player, and for Embiid, the pressure to perform, while managing an injury history, creates a high-stakes balancing act. In following his journey, we gain insight into a larger conversation around athlete health, mental resilience, and the complexities of the game. While the cheers of the crowd and the thrill of each game echo through the arena, it’s essential to remember that behind the scenes, there’s often a struggle that is all too real and deeply human.
