Joel Embiid’s long track record of playoff injuries remains intact after he suffered an LCL sprain in the series against the Nets. While the 76ers did escape that round with a 4-0 sweep, it came at the cost of Embiid’s health, who had to sit in Game 1.
In Game 2 on Wednesday, Embiid was able to return to the lineup but was clearly not at full strength as he scored just 15 points on 44% shooting. As concern continues to grow about the state of Embiid’s health, he has committed to doing whatever he can to play through this injury, even going so far as to cut his 4-week recovery time short.
“With what I have, I’m supposed to be out 4-6 weeks…got this out of the way,” Embiid said, via Real GM. “Disappointed by the loss, but that’s a step toward getting back to myself. I think I’ll be fine. I’ve played through a lot,” Embiid said. “We’ve got a big chance, and we’ve got to take advantage of it.”
Joel Embiid: I'm Supposed To Be Out 4-6 Weeks https://t.co/4jDe9768Yb
— RealGM (@RealGM) May 4, 2023
The Sixers were able to steal Game 1 without Embiid thanks to a huge offensive explosion from James Harden, who went off for 45 points and 6 assists in the victory. Sadly, neither Harden nor Embiid were able to turn in a strong performance on Wednesday and the 76ers will have to win Game 3 if they went to keep control of the series.
Can Embiid Take Philly To The Promised Land?
Despite this latest injury to Embiid, he cannot afford to bow out now. With the Milwaukee Bucks eliminated, the 76ers have a unique opportunity to become the favorites in the East if they take care of business and protect their home court against the Celtics.
Of course, no. 21 will have to be playing at an MVP level for his team to have a chance and there’s still optimism he can get there in spite of his injury.
“The probability of someone like me, starting playing basketball at 15, to get the chance to be MVP, is probably negative zero,” said Embiid on his NBA journey. “We don’t have a lot of opportunities in Africa in general, but improbable doesn’t mean impossible, you can accomplish anything you set your mind to as long as you believe in it and you keep working hard. Anything can happen.”
At this point, nobody is doubting that Joel is that guy, and his talent as one of the best players in the game is undeniable. If he’s got health on his side, it’s only a matter of time before he makes a run and he has all the faith in the world that it will happen sooner rather than later.
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