Joel Embiid shines in preseason debut
Joel Embiid returned to the court for the Philadelphia 76ers this Wednesday as they dominated the Brooklyn Nets 133-114.
His preseason debut marked the first time he’s played in an NBA game since January 27 of last season. Embiid underwent season ending knee surgery on March 24 to repair a torn meniscus in his left knee.
Although players tend to need time to shake off the rust after a long and grueling battle with a serious injury, Embiid showed no sings of regression in his comeback. In fact, despite dressing out for a short 14 minute stint, Embiid put himself on pace to finish with 56 points, 18 rebounds and 8 assists had he played in even 36 minutes of the game.
The spectacular outing showed us a lot of what we already know about Joel Embiid. He can create his own show, drain spot up threes, beat his defender with a medley of post moves and shut down opposing players at the rim.
For however great Embiid reminded the association he could be, his talent will go to waste if he can’t stay healthy and available for the Sixers each night. Through three seasons, the big man has suited up for a meager 31 contests and missed two full years with season ending foot surgeries.
Philadelphia recently handed out a 5 year 148-million dollar contact to the Cameroonian center with the plan for him to become the centerpiece of their franchise. Let’s hope he can stay healthy and take the NBA world by storm like he did in his unbelievable rookie year.
