Update: Embiid has started the second half for the 76ers, which is a big relief for the team and its fans. Every time the big man lands awkwardly there’s a pause around the arena, so there’s probably a huge exhale at Wells Fargo Center.
Philadelphia 76ers big man Joel Embiid appeared to suffer a knee injury Friday against the Orlando Magic when he landed awkwardly after a made basket. It’s worth noting Embiid didn’t immediately make his way off the court but did eventually go back once the game had a timeout.
Joel Embiid landed awkwardly after making a basket and immediately grabbed at his left knee. Embiid stayed in the game until the next timeout and then exited the game and immediately left for the locker room.
— Tim Bontemps (@TimBontemps) April 13, 2024
He has 21-9-7 in 17 first half minutes.
Embiid was absolutely dominating the Magic, dropping 21 points, nine rebounds and seven assists in the first half. The big man obviously just returned after a long absence due to rehab from a meniscus injury, so this is very concerning for the 76ers. Embiid was a surefire MVP frontrunner for much of the season before his injury, and his presence chances the trajectory for Philadelphia considerably when it comes to its title chances.
Joel Embiid went to the locker room after an apparent leg injury pic.twitter.com/uIEDB1gaQn
— Bleacher Report (@BleacherReport) April 13, 2024
If Embiid does not return and is sidelined for a longer time, Paul Reed and Mo Bamba would get the first crack at his minutes. Reed probably gets the start as the more versatile player. Tyrese Maxey would take over as the primary offensive initiator, and he’d be the engine for this team. The 76ers could potentially be in the play-in tournament, so Embiid might not have time to recover if he did indeed suffer a serious injury Friday evening.