Sixers News: Joel Embiid Expected to Debut vs. Brooklyn Nets

When the Philadelphia 76ers opened their 2023 preseason run against the Boston Celtics one week ago, Joel Embiid was among a handful of players to get the night off.

A few nights later, the Sixers and the Celtics met for a rematch in South Philly. Once again, Embiid was not a participant.

The good news for the Sixers is that Embiid has remained healthy throughout the offseason so far. While the big man finished the 2023 NBA Playoffs dealing with an injury, the big man hasn’t suffered any setbacks as he prepares for the 2023-2024 regular season.

To no surprise, the Sixers wanted to ease Embiid back into the swing of things. Therefore, they didn’t rush him out on the court for the first two preseason games.

According to Nick Nurse, the Sixers expect to break the trend on Monday night when they pay a visit to the Brooklyn Nets.

Joel Embiid is expected to play tomorrow night vs. #Nets.
— Keith Pompey (@PompeyOnSixers) October 15, 2023

Coming off an MVP season, Embiid heads into the new year with high expectations. Last season, the big man was crowned the NBA’s scoring champion for the second-straight season by averaging a career-high 33 points per game in 66 outings.

When the Sixers made it to the playoffs, Embiid played in nine games and averaged 24 points and ten rebounds before they fell short against the Boston Celtics in the second round.

Following another second-round exit, the Sixers have high hopes of finding better success this season under head coach Nick Nurse. While they’ll take it easy with Embiid to begin the new season, Monday’s game should offer everybody the first look at Embiid in Nurse’s new system.