According to the Philadelphia 76ers, Joel Embiid has officially been ruled out for the remainder of the season due to his left knee.
With ongoing issues involving his knee, and this season not exactly turning out the way Philly has hoped, both sides have come to an agreement to shut it down and begin rehab.
“The Philadelphia 76ers and Joel Embiid have been consulting with top specialists regarding ongoing issues with his left knee,” wrote the Sixers in their statement. “After further evaluation, it has been determined that he is medically unable to play and will miss the remainder of the season to focus on treatment and rehabilitation.
“We are working with medical experts to determine the exact treatment plan and will update media when we have more information. The team and specialists will continue working with Joel to ensure the best path forward for his long-term health and performance.”
The 30-year-old only played in 19 games this season, as last year was only 39 games. In his career, Embiid has never played 70 games in a season. He’s only has four seasons of playing 60-68 games. He’s played nine seasons in the National Basketball Association.
In his MVP season, Embiid only managed to play 66 games, which saw them be a second-round exit team.
Per Keith Smith’s report, Philadelphia could request a ‘medical retirement’ for Embiid if he’s unable to play a year from now. This is a greater possibility with many around the league saying his upcoming extension is basically untradeable.
“At that point, an independent doctor selected by the NBA and NBPA would examine Embiid. If agreed he can no longer play, his remaining contract would be wiped off the books for the Sixers.”
This season, the 76ers are 20-38 (12th in the East). They are three games back from the final Play-In spot (Chicago Bulls).
