Embiid Set for Play-In Game Despite Knee Woes

The Philadelphia 76ers and their fans can breathe a sigh of relief as head coach Nick Nurse confirmed that star center Joel Embiid will be “ready to go” for their crucial play-in tournament game against the Miami Heat on Wednesday.

Embiid, the reigning NBA MVP, had been held out of the Sixers’ regular season finale against the Brooklyn Nets on Sunday due to knee soreness. However, Nurse stated that the move was merely precautionary and that Embiid had practiced fully on Saturday.

“He did everything at practice yesterday,” Nurse explained after the Nets game. “But we decided out of caution to hold him out. He’ll be ready to go.”

The big man’s availability is a major boost for Philadelphia’s playoff hopes. Embiid has been on a tear since returning from meniscus surgery two weeks ago, leading the 76ers to six straight wins after missing 29 games.

His dominant 34.7 points per game scoring average would have earned him another scoring title, if not for falling short of the 65-game minimum requirement for postseason awards eligibility.

While individual accolades have eluded him this season, an extended playoff run remains very much in play for Embiid and the 76ers, who have underachieved in recent years despite boasting immense talent.

Philadelphia hasn’t advanced past the second round since making the NBA Finals back in 2001. But with a healthy Embiid leading the charge, this could finally be the year they break through in the imposing Eastern Conference.

Of course, they’ll first need to get past the Play-In hurdle against a dangerous Miami squad led by Jimmy Butler, Bam Adebayo and a supporting cast that reached the Finals just two seasons ago.

A win on Wednesday would set up an intriguing first-round matchup with the 2nd-seeded New York Knicks. But a loss would force the Sixers into another do-or-die Play-In tilt, with the daunting prospect of facing the juggernaut Boston Celtics awaiting the victor.

So while Embiid’s return to health is undoubtedly a huge relief, the road ahead for Philadelphia remains extremely challenging. But with their transcendent big man leading the way, they’ll back themselves against anyone.

The Sixers’ championship dreams rest heavily on those broad shoulders. And based on Nurse’s comments, those shoulders appear ready to carry the load once more as the playoff push begins.