The Process is far from over.
Philadelphia 76ers center and 2023 MVP Joel Embiid is officially on pace to return for training camp this September, according to team president Daryl Morey.
After an injury-riddled season that saw Embiid suit up for just 19 games and undergo arthroscopic knee surgery in April, all signs now point to a clean bill of health ahead of the 2025 season. Speaking ahead of the NBA Draft, where the Sixers selected guard VJ Edgecombe with the No. 3 overall pick, Morey said that Embiid is “very engaged” and “attacking rehab.”
“All things, to use a NASA term, are nominal,” Morey said. “We expect that to continue.”
The Comeback Clock is Ticking
With the Sixers set to participate in the Abu Dhabi preseason games against the Knicks in early October, Embiid’s status becomes even more crucial. Morey confirmed the franchise is optimistic about Embiid’s readiness for those games — and for the long grind of the regular season.
A Rough 2024 in the Rearview
The 2024 season was brutal for Embiid. After returning too quickly from a February meniscus tear, he was clearly not himself in the playoffs. That capped a campaign that also included a three-game suspension and ongoing knee issues. His final averages — 23.8 points, 8.2 rebounds, and 4.5 assists — were well below MVP levels.
Since winning MVP in 2023, Embiid has appeared in just 58 regular-season games. It’s the latest chapter in a career constantly interrupted by injuries, dating back to his foot fracture before the 2014 draft.
He’s battled through torn ligaments, facial fractures, knee sprains, and even Bell’s palsy — all while anchoring Philadelphia’s hopes.
“It’s kind of hard not to feel bad about yourself,” Embiid admitted last year. “But I’ve learned to stop focusing on the negativity.”
What’s Next for Philly
With Embiid healing and Tyrese Maxey expected back at full strength, the 76ers have a clean slate after a 24–58 season under Nick Nurse. Add in VJ Edgecombe’s potential and a healthy Paul George (if retained), and Philly could flip the script quickly.
The Process has always been about resilience — and Embiid, more than anyone, defines that.
