76ers Regret Joel Embiid Extension Amid Persistent Knee Injury

Joel Embiid's ongoing knee issues have cast significant doubt over his availability for the Philadelphia 76ers' 2025-26 training camp, with reports indicating his knee is in 'bad' shape and may sideline him at the start of camp. Despite his three-year, $193 million contract extension signed in 2024, executives within and outside the league reportedly regret the decision due to his persistent injury struggles that limited him to just 19 games last season and 58 games over two seasons. Embiid underwent multiple surgeries on the same knee, and medical experts express skepticism about his ability to fully recover, noting few players successfully return from repeated surgeries on the same body part. His injuries have also impacted his mental health and the team's performance, as the 76ers finished with a disappointing 24-58 record, hindered further by injuries to other key players like Paul George. While the Sixers publicly remain optimistic about Embiid's return to MVP form, insiders and rival teams express serious concerns about his long-term durability and the franchise's future around him. Embiid’s participation in the 2024 Olympics despite his injury may have exacerbated his condition, contributing to the current uncertainty about his career continuity and potential retirement considerations.