Joel Embiid Injury Update: Philly Return for James Harden Could Be a Comeback Game for 76ers MVP

Joel Embiid might be nearing his return to the court. The reigning MVP has been out of action since January 30 due to a meniscus tear in his left knee. And Philadelphia 76ers are desperately waiting for their superstar to return as they have struggled in his absence; landing 6th seed in the Eastern Conference. Amid their struggles, there is a possibility that Joel Embiid might make a comeback the same day James Harden returns to Philadelphia.

Sixers head coach Nick Nurse revealed that Joel Embiid is in the “ramp-up” phase of his recovery. Embiid successfully began non-contact practice and will slowly progress to playing 1-on-1 and 5-on-5 basketball before returning to the lineup. Although he is out for tonight’s Suns’ clash, Embiid could return for next Wednesday’s home game against the Los Angeles Clippers. That will be a perfect setup for Embiid as James Harden will return to Philadelphia for the first time since getting traded earlier this season.

The Sixers traded James Harden to the LA Clippers last November after months of back and forth. Things ended on bad terms between Harden and the Sixers after the former MVP publicly called President Daryl Morey a liar. The Clippers and the Sixers have not faced each other so far this season. Hence, The Beard can expect to face an angered crowd when he returns to Philly next week. If Embiid is able to return for that game, the Sixers might have a better chance at coming out with a win over Harden and Lakers, gaining the bragging rights.

Joel Embiid’s return: Crucial instance for the Sixers’ success

Philly fans will surely be excited if Joel Embiid plays next Wednesday against a returning James Harden. However, Embiid and the Sixers have a bigger goal to focus on. Embiid is still recovering from his knee surgery, and the Sixers would not want to rush his return. Even though Embiid’s return to the court might be a matter of urgency for the Sixers, a comeback before being complete recovery could further risk Embiid’s season. Which could prove a challenge considering the forward’s contributions.

The Sixers have an abysmal 12-22 record without Embiid this season; solely highlighting the his essentiality. He was further the frontrunner to win MVP before he got injured. The forward was averaging 35.3 points, 11.3 rebounds, and 5.7 assists. And deems crucial for Philly’s playoff success. On a hopeful, successful comeback, team and the spectators look to seek a worthy hand from Embiid in keeping the Sixers’ Championship dream alive.

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