When does Joel Embiid come back for 76ers? Looking at former MVP's probable return date for season debut

Joel Embiid has missed nine straight games of the regular season so far due to injury management. The Philadelphia 76ers star has been dealing with some issues in his left knee. For this reason, the Sixers decided to restrict his playing time to reduce the risk of him severely hurting his knee.

However, it seems that Philly is ready to deploy their star big man as Embiid is no longer listed in the injury report for Tuesday's (November 12) game against the New York Knicks.

As of this writing, nothing has been confirmed yet. However, given that Joel Embiid is no longer on the injury list, it's most probable that the big man will suit up for the Sixers on Tuesday.

It's also worth noting that Embiid's three-game suspension has been lifted. The NBA suspended the Sixers star on November 2 for shoving a member of the media during a post-game press conference following his team's loss to the Memphis Grizzlies.

Considering all these factors, it makes sense that Philly's big man will make his comeback on the hardwood. His potential return from injury management will mark his official 2024-25 season debut.

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Can Joel Embiid turn Philadelphia's season around?

NBA: Memphis Grizzlies at Philadelphia 76ers - Source: Imagn

The Philadelphia 76ers are off to an awful start to their season. They went 2-7 without their star big man, Joel Embiid, in the lineup. Despite having Tyrese Maxey and Paul George to take over in Embiid's absence, it's clear that they need their former reigning MVP to help them gain momentum.

Last season, the Sixers secured the seventh seed in the Eastern Conference with a 47-35 record. Their low rank had a lot to do with Embiid's absence due to surgery that he needed to go through. Comparing it to his MVP season in the 2022-23 campaign, Embiid played 66 games and helped his team secure the third seed with a 54-28 record.

With all that in mind, Joel Embiid's return to the Sixers lineup could turn the team's season around. Looking at Embiid's last three seasons prior to this year, he has averaged 32.8 points, 10.9 rebounds, 4.6 assists, and 1.1 steals. His numbers will undoubtedly give Philly a significant boost in both offense and defense. However, that's only if he performs at the same level when he makes his return.