Overview
- The 76ers posted a short video of Joel Embiid shooting in practice without a knee brace, his first encouraging sighting since April arthroscopic surgery on his left knee.
- Reporting indicates the team hopes to have Embiid ready for the regular season opener with managed workloads, though no firm availability timeline has been announced.
- Paul George reportedly underwent offseason knee surgery after a workout setback, and Matt Barnes said George told him he is feeling better after doctors addressed an issue in the knee.
- Philadelphia is coming off a 24-58 season wrecked by injuries, including a torn ACL for rookie Jared McCain, with Tyrese Maxey, No. 3 pick V.J. Edgecombe and Quentin Grimes rounding out a young core.
- Analysts question the ceiling, with Jeff Teague predicting a play-in finish and Mavs Moneyball noting massive Embiid and George contracts that restrict roster flexibility if health woes persist.