76ers' Joel Embiid Practices for 1st Time Since Knee Injury; April Return Targeted

Philadelphia 76ers superstar Joel Embiid returned to practice on Sunday, according to Keith Pompey of The Philadelphia Inquirer.

Embiid hasn't appeared in a game since Jan. 30 due to a left knee injury, which has caused the 76ers to drop to the No. 8 seed in the Eastern Conference ahead of Monday night's action.

Pompey noted that the team is "hopeful" that the reigning MVP can return in the first or second week of April, which would give him some time to get comfortable on the floor ahead of the postseason.

The 76ers were able to expand their practice with Embiid available, according to point guard Cameron Payne.

"We had some more plays today [because] we had Joel back," Payne said, via Pompey. "So we had some different plays and I had to learn a little bit more, again."

While 76ers head coach Nick Nurse revealed that the seven-time All-Star didn't participate in the entire practice, it's still a positive sign that Embiid was able to make progress in his recovery. Nurse did not disclose a possible timetable regarding the center's return, though.

"He went through a little bit of the practice," said Nurse. "All non-contact stuff. He's lifting weights right now. No timeline for his return."

Prior to the injury, Embiid was on pace for an exceptional regular season that likely would have resulted in several MVP votes if he was able to meet the 65-game threshold. In 34 starts, he recorded 35.3 points, 11.3 rebounds, and 5.7 assists per game on 53.3/36.6/88.3 shooting splits.

The 76ers have struggled in his absence, especially in the paint. Before Embiid's injury was announced, Philadelphia ranked No. 6 among all teams in shots attempted in the restricted area per game (via NBA.com). Since he's been out, the 76ers rank No. 15 in restricted area attempts and have been forced to settle for more long-range looks.

While Embiid's exact return date is currently unknown, it's a good sign that he's able to begin practicing again.