Author: Monojit Mandal
Joel Embiid’s right knee injury was a blow for the 76ers in their first game of the Eastern Conference semi-finals against the Celtics, as he didn’t play. Embiid’s status for the game was uncertain, despite being present at the team’s morning practice, and he was ruled out shortly before the start of the match.
After sweeping the Brooklyn Nets earlier, the Sixers had the longest break of any NBA club. However, Embiid’s injury in Game 3 caused him to miss the next game as well. Coach Doc Rivers addressed the issue on Saturday, hinting that Embiid would be questionable for Game 1 and stressing the importance of his recovery.
Embiid, 29, from Cameroon, had a fantastic season, averaging 33.1 points per game to win his second consecutive scoring title. He also averaged 10.2 rebounds and 4.2 assists per game, both career highs, in 66 games, the second highest number of games played in his career.
Due to various injuries, he missed two games in the second round last year and another in the first round in 2021.
Embiid’s epilepsy was detected in Game 1 against the Celtics, especially as he had an exceptional season against them, averaging 36.8 points and 11.8 rebounds per game in 4 games. The Sixers will be praying for his speedy recovery as they try to advance in the playoffs.
If Embiid is ruled out for Game 2, which is scheduled to take place in a few days, the Sixers will need to regroup and change their game plan. Undoubtedly, the team will be praying for the best and working tirelessly to get their star back on the court as soon as possible.