On January 6th, a recurring theme of Philadelphia sports happened once again. Joel Embiid, who had been on a tear for the first few months of the season, putting up 34.8 points along with 11 rebounds per game, suffered a leg injury after colliding with Jonathan Kuminga of the Golden State Warriors.
This left the Sixers in despair—a team built around their seven-foot center just lost their game plan and hopes for a deep playoff run. Embiid injured his meniscus in his left knee, and, on paper, suffered a season-ending injury. Head Coach Nick Nurse and all new and returning players on the 76ers were put in a difficult position, and they had to come up with a new game plan.
The 76ers went on with a record of 13-26 without Embiid. Before Embiid got injured, the 76ers were the third seed in the Eastern Conference. However, they now find themselves on the brink of the playoffs, sitting at the eighth seed.
With all hope seeming lost, and a playoff berth on the line, Embiid returned to the picture on April 2nd. Embiid’s return game captured a sold-out crowd at Wells Fargo Center. With their superstar back on the floor, the 76ers were taking on the number-one seed in the Western Conference, The Oklahoma City Thunder. Embiid’s minutes were set to be limited coming into this game. However, Embiid played 30 minutes, putting up 24 points and leading the 76ers to a nail-biting victory.
Since Embiid returned to the picture, the 76ers have gone 6-0 and hope to close as the number-six seed in the Eastern Conference.
It is no secret the 76ers have disappointed the city of Philadelphia in the playoffs the last few years, but could this be the year where the 76ers get over the hump. With a rested and healthy Embiid back in the picture, a great surrounding cast including most improved player nominee Tyrese Maxey, and a successful coach with an NBA Finals ring, it is safe to say that the 76ers can make some noise during the 2024 NBA playoffs.
