Basketball/ NBA preseason begins without Joel Embiid as Philadelphia 76ers prioritize star’s fitness
The 2024-2025 NBA season officially kicks off on October 22, but the action has already started with preseason matchups as teams fine-tune their strategies and lineups. However, one notable absence from the preseason court is Philadelphia 76ers star Joel Embiid, who is being carefully managed due to concerns over his knee.
After enduring knee troubles last season, the Sixers are playing it safe with Embiid, who also dealt with a grueling postseason.
The franchise is determined to have their star player, who now holds both Cameroonian and American nationalities, at full strength for the regular season.
The Sixers begin their campaign on October 23 with a highly anticipated clash against Giannis Antetokounmpo and the Milwaukee Bucks.
Embiid, who has been crucial to the Sixers’ success in recent years, has focused heavily on his physical conditioning during the offseason.
The reigning MVP has reportedly shed weight and improved his mobility, aiming to be in peak form for what could be another deep playoff run.
Philadelphia’s coaching staff and medical team are keen on making sure Embiid’s knee issues don’t resurface, hoping that the extra caution during the preseason will pay off in the long term.
The absence of Embiid in preseason games has raised questions, but the Sixers believe that ensuring their franchise player is 100% ready for the season opener is the top priority.
Fans eagerly await the showdown against Milwaukee, where Embiid will look to prove that his offseason work has him primed for another dominant year in the league.
