Philadelphia 76ers center Joel Embiid has raised concerns about the possibility of undergoing another surgery on his left knee, which has been a persistent issue for him over the past year. During a recent game against the Milwaukee Bucks, Embiid hinted at the likelihood of needing surgery and a subsequent lengthy recovery period if his knee does not show signs of improvement by the end of the season.
While speaking to the media post-game, Embiid expressed uncertainty but acknowledged that offseason surgery could be a viable option. He emphasized the importance of addressing the inconsistency in his knee health, stating, 'When you’ve got something that’s inconsistent, at some point, you’ve got to do something about it. We don’t know what it is. We’re looking into every option.'
Embiid recently returned to the court after missing 15 games due to his ongoing knee problems. Despite his impressive performance in the three games since his return, averaging 26.3 points, 10 rebounds, and 7.3 assists, concerns about his long-term health remain.
Last season, Embiid's playing time was significantly impacted by a torn meniscus in his left knee, leading to surgery in early February. Following a swift recovery, he rejoined the 76ers for the playoffs and later secured a gold medal with the U.S. Olympic team last summer.
Reflecting on his past experiences, Embiid admitted that he may not have allowed sufficient time for recovery after his previous surgery. Looking ahead, he stressed the importance of prioritizing his health, stating, 'At some point I probably need to just, especially when the summer comes around, these few months to just recover fully. Like I said, don’t know what it is, but if that keeps being the same pattern, then obviously you’ve got to try something else.'
Embiid, who is averaging 24.6 points, 8.1 rebounds, and 4.4 assists in 15 games this season, emphasized the need for a cautious approach to his knee condition. He highlighted the importance of monitoring his health on a daily basis and taking necessary action if the situation worsens.
As the 76ers continue to navigate Embiid's health concerns, the team and medical staff will likely assess all available options to ensure his long-term well-being and performance on the court.
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