Philadelphia 76ers’ star center Joel Embiid is edging closer to a return to the court before the conclusion of the regular NBA season, according to coach Nick Nurse’s statements on Wednesday.
Embiid has been sidelined since sustaining a left knee injury in a game against the Golden State Warriors on January 30, when he was accidentally fallen upon by Jonathan Kuminga. Following the injury, Embiid underwent a procedure to address the damage to his knee on February 6.
Coach Nurse expressed optimism about Embiid’s potential return before the play-in playoffs, indicating a “very good likelihood” of his comeback. Despite being cautious about providing a specific timeline, Nurse mentioned that Embiid has been actively training on the court and making progress in his recovery each day. The focus remains on strengthening, building confidence, and ensuring he is in optimal physical shape before his return.
The absence of Embiid has been keenly felt by the 76ers, who hold a significantly better record with him on the floor compared to when he’s sidelined. His impact on the team’s performance is undeniable, given his exceptional scoring and rebounding abilities.
Additionally, Nurse provided updates on other sidelined players, including Robert Covington and De’Anthony Melton. Covington, who has been out with a knee injury since the beginning of the year, is showing signs of progress and could potentially make a return soon. However, Melton’s return timeline is less certain as he continues to manage a back ailment.
As the regular season approaches its conclusion, the 76ers are hopeful of welcoming back key players to bolster their roster for the upcoming playoffs.
