Joel Embiid Takes Important Step Toward Returning to 76ers

Joel Embiid could make his return to the Sixers' lineup to face the Rockets.

Lately, the Philadelphia 76ers have been playing without their All-Star big man, Joel Embiid.

As the veteran center twisted his knee during a matchup against the New York Knicks on January 5, he started experiencing swelling the following day.

The Sixers didn’t have any downtime between the Knicks matchup and the Utah Jazz game, which took place at home the following night. While Sixers head coach Nick Nurse expected Embiid to play on the second leg of the back-to-back set, the Sixers’ medical staff didn’t clear the big man for action.

Last week, the Sixers had a few days off between their back-to-back and the matchup against the Atlanta Hawks on the road. In the two practices leading up to the Atlanta matchup, Embiid was not a participant. When the team hit the road, he stayed home and was ruled out for the night.

Two nights later, the Sixers were back on their home court to face the Sacramento Kings. Although the team was hopeful Embiid would get the opportunity to suit up after a two-game absence, the big man remained on the bench in street clothes for the matchup.

Fortunately for Philadelphia, Embiid’s absence didn’t result in a four-game losing streak. Without the MVP-winning center, the Sixers collected a 19-point victory over the Kings.

Will Embiid Return Against the Rockets?

The Houston Rockets are in town for a matinee matchup against the Sixers on Monday. When the Sixers gathered for a Sunday afternoon practice, Embiid was considered a participant. He was spotted after the practice session putting in some extra work as well.

Does that guarantee Embiid’s return to the floor on Monday? Not exactly. According to the Sixers’ injury report, Embiid is listed as questionable due to knee inflammation. While his participation in Sunday’s practice is a positive sign he’s on the right path toward returning, his questionable status makes the situation a 50/50 shot.

The Sixers and the Rockets will tip at 1:00 PM ET on Monday. Embiid’s status will be finalized no later than 12:30 PM ET.