Embiid Returns in Preseason After Knee Surgery

Joel Embiid made his first game appearance since Feb. 22 in the 76ers’ preseason finale against the Timberwolves, playing 19 minutes and finishing with 14 points (5-of-10), seven rebounds, eight assists and three steals as he continues to recover from April arthroscopic knee surgery. Coach Nick Nurse and the team have adopted a cautious, day-to-day plan with limited stints to monitor how Embiid reacts during and after games, and Embiid said he feels “pretty good” but will take a slow, measured approach. The outing is an encouraging step toward the regular-season opener but underscores chronic availability concerns—Embiid played just 19 games last season and has had multiple recent injuries that curtailed his minutes. Teammates and peers, including Dwight Howard, still praise Embiid’s elite talent when healthy, yet staying on the court for a full season and reclaiming All‑NBA form remain the key milestones he must achieve to silence doubters.