Joel Embiid, the Philadelphia 76ers’ All-Star center, missed the team’s 109-99 loss to the Phoenix Suns due to an injury. The All-Star center, known for his play on the court, has faced a challenging season with multiple injuries. Now, many are concerned about the toll of these injuries on Embiid and his availability as the 76ers.

Here is more about Embiid’s injury.

How did Joel Embiid get injured?

Joel Embiid’s injury troubles continued as the Philadelphia 76ers faced a 109-99 loss to the Phoenix Suns on Monday night without their star center. Sidelined by a left foot sprain, Embiid missed his 21st game of the NBA season, further highlighting a year fraught with setbacks. His absence, along with a struggling lineup, has left the Sixers grappling for consistency.

This season has been far from typical for the two-time NBA scoring champion. Embiid is averaging 24.4 points and 7.9 rebounds after missing significant time due to a sinus fracture, left knee soreness, and a suspension earlier in the season. The Sixers, now 14-20 and ranked 11th in the Eastern Conference, have managed a 7-14 record.

Philadelphia’s depleted roster against the Suns was further strained by the absences of Kyle Lowry, Jared McCain, and KJ Martin. While Guerschon Yabusele stepped up admirably with 14 points and 10 rebounds, it wasn’t enough to secure a victory. With the team’s performance declining, Embiid’s health has become a pressing concern as the Sixers aim to save their season.

While Embiid remains listed as questionable for upcoming games, the hope is that Embiid can overcome his lingering injuries and return to the team. 

When will Joel Embiid return to play for NBA?

There is no exact timeline for Joel Embiid returning to play for the NBA after their injury.

Sixers coach Nick Nurse addressed Joel Embiid’s foot injury on Monday, emphasizing that it’s not a long-term concern. Nurse explained the situation, “It’s day-to-day. He hurt it a (few) games ago and it’s been trying to get him back in there. … It’s not good enough to go today, but it’s nothing major.” (via ESPN)