76ers’ Embiid Returns to Action After 8-Month Hiatus

Joel Embiid marked his return to the basketball court after an eight-month absence, leading the Philadelphia 76ers to a 126-110 victory over the Minnesota Timberwolves reserves. The game took place at the Xfinity Mobile Arena, serving as the team’s final preseason match before the official start of the 2025-26 NBA season.

Embiid’s Encouraging Performance

In his much-anticipated comeback, Embiid logged 18 minutes and 35 seconds of play, scoring 14 points, alongside 7 rebounds, 8 assists, 3 steals, and 4 turnovers. He shot 50% from the field, including two three-pointers and making both of his free throw attempts. This performance gave fans and teammates hope for the upcoming season.

76ers guard Tyrese Maxey expressed his excitement about Embiid’s return, noting how happy he was for his teammate. “I think the biggest thing that I felt was just joy,” he remarked. “He was so excited just to be out there to play.”

Recent Past and Future Outlook

Embiid had not played since February 22, due to an arthroscopic surgery on his left knee. He only participated in 19 games last season, averaging 23.8 points, 8.2 rebounds, and 4.5 assists. During this time, he struggled to regain form, often comparing poorly to his previous MVP-caliber performances.

Despite these challenges, Embiid showed signs of his former self during the preseason game. “I’m just happy to touch the basketball and do what I love,” he noted. His current focus is on improving daily and minimizing past concerns about his knee.

Other Significant Performances

• VJ Edgecombe: The No. 3 pick in June’s NBA Draft, Edgecombe, had an impressive game with 26 points, 6 rebounds, 3 assists, and 5 steals.
• Quentin Grimes: Making his preseason debut, Grimes scored 22 points, adding 5 assists and 3 steals in 26 minutes.

Coach Nick Nurse expressed satisfaction with Embiid’s performance, stating, “I thought he moved good, played good, shot it good, passed it good.” This positive assessment bodes well for the team’s season opener against Boston next week.

Injury Updates

While Embiid has returned, Paul George remains sidelined as he continues his recovery from knee surgery conducted in July. Although George has ramped up his activity level and participated in recent practices, he is unlikely to be ready for the opening night.

As the 76ers prepare for the upcoming season, they aim to build momentum from this pivotal preseason game, with Embiid’s return being a key highlight.