Philadelphia 76ers center Joel Embiid is adapting to diminished athleticism at age 31 following last year's knee surgery. In a recent loss to the Los Angeles Lakers, he showed flashes of his explosiveness but struggled with shot-making. Embiid remains a key offensive force despite inconsistent play.
Philadelphia 76ers superstar Joel Embiid, now 31, is working his way back to full health after undergoing left knee surgery last year. His new basketball reality involves less burst and vertical explosiveness, as injuries have taken a toll over time. During Sunday night's defeat to the Los Angeles Lakers, Embiid displayed an explosive first step off the dribble, gaining separation for what should have been an easy dunk. Instead, he opted for a left-handed layup that rimmed out, leading to visible frustration.
"Every shot felt like it was right there," Embiid said Sunday night. "I think it all comes down to just getting back into a rhythm."
Through the season, Embiid has averaged 18.2 points in 25.1 minutes per game, shooting just under 41 percent from the field and 21.4 percent from three-point range. He is not rebounding or reaching the free-throw line at his usual rates, prompting questions about a potential decline. However, deeper analysis reveals strengths: in the Lakers game, he finished 4-of-21 from the field but the Sixers were plus-11 with him on the floor.
Embiid's pick-and-roll play with Tyrese Maxey created driving lanes for teammates, and his presence clogged lanes on defense, helping secure stops. He attacked aggressively to reach the free-throw line efficiently. The 76ers' load management plan limits him to every other day, disrupting routine since his knee injury nearly two years ago against the Golden State Warriors.
"I’m not playing every day, and I think that’s hard," Embiid said. "It’s hard just being in and out of the lineup. But that’s where we are and that’s what I have to do."
Teammate Paul George emphasized patience: "That’s why the game is percentages... We know they are going to fall."
Embiid's skill at three levels keeps him elite offensively, especially with Maxey's breakout season reducing his burden. He reports feeling good lately and hopes to ramp up minutes.
"I think it’s all about getting into that rhythm and playing every other day," Embiid said. "I’m feeling pretty good."
