76ers expect Joel Embiid to return in time for training camp - ESPN

CAMDEN, N.J. — Philadelphia 76ers center Joel Embiid is on track to return from knee surgery when training camp opens in September.

Embiid had arthroscopic surgery on his left knee in April following a disastrous, injury-plagued season that limited the two-time NBA scoring champion to just 19 games.

Team President Daryl Morey talked to Embiid hours ahead of the first-round of the NBA draft on Wednesday night — the 76ers selected Baylor guard VJ Edgecombe with the No. 3 pick — and was encouraged by the All-Star's progress.

«He's very engaged, attacking rehab,» Morey said. «Doing everything he can to be out there. He had a meeting with [the surgeon] this week. All things, to use a NASA term, are nominal. Things are going well and expected, and we expect that to continue.»

The 76ers will get an early jump on training camp this season because they will play preseason games in early October against the New York Knicks in Abu Dhabi.

The 76ers expect the 31-year-old Embiid in camp.

«Things are on track to be ready right around there,» Morey said.

Embiid had meniscus surgery on Feb. 6, 2024, days after Golden State forward Jonathan Kuminga fell on the leg. Embiid returned for the playoffs, though he never fully recovered.

He was ruled out ruled out for the season in late February after averaging 23.8 points, 8.2 rebounds and 4.5 assists. Embiid had been hobbled by injuries all season and served a three-game suspension for shoving a member of the media.

Embiid has played only 58 regular-season games and seven play-in tournament/playoff games since he was named NBA MVP for the 2022-23 season.

Like Edgecombe, Embiid in 2014 was also the No. 3 pick of the draft.

Embiid has dealt with multiple injuries since even before he entered