Joel Embiid's Injury Recovery Reportedly Gives 'Optimism' to 76ers Ahead of NBA Season

Hope once again springs eternal for the Philadelphia 76ers when it comes to star center Joel Embiid.

Embiid is continuing to recover from knee surgery. ESPN's Brian Windhorst reported Monday on his Hoop Collective podcast the Sixers are staying positive about what lies ahead.

"There's optimism from the 76ers," he said starting at the 11:44 mark. "You talk to their executives, coaches, there's optimism. But I mean, what am I supposed to take with Joel Embiid optimism? He'll be playing when he's playing. So, that was a positive sign."

Injuries have unfortunately been the story for Embiid throughout his career, including after his 2022-23 MVP season. He was limited to just 39 games during the 2023-24 season and suffered a torn lateral meniscus that lingered into last season.

During the 2024-25 campaign, Embiid missed the start of the year because of the knee injury, and he ultimately played just 19 games before shutting down his season in February. He had arthroscopic surgery on his knee in April.

After an offseason of recovery and rehab, Embiid said in September that he was "on schedule" for his return and had a goal of playing "consistently." He also emphasized the importance of listening to his body.

Embiid suited up Sunday in a team scrimmage, which is encouraging as it relates to his availability for Philly's opener on Oct. 22 against the Boston Celtics. But the overarching question is whether the seven-time All-Star can stay healthy for the full season.