Joel Embiid’s injury concerns have hampered the Philadelphia 76ers’ prospects of making a title run this postseason. The 76ers have once again begun the series against the New York Knicks with losses in the initial couple of games. Even though the Knicks were the favorites to win Round 2, the 76ers’ grit in the last round, after winning Game 7, meant the team was expected to maintain the momentum. However, Kendrick Perkins didn’t believe in the 76ers’ chances to win a title.
Embiid could not play Game 2 in the second round due to post-surgery symptoms and rehab. While featuring on First Take, Perkins expressed his concerns over Philly’s chances this series and said:
“Different year, same story, when it comes to Joel Embiid. You can’t win a championship with Joel Embiid being one of the faces of your franchise. … You can’t trust him to be available.”
The former NBA player-turned-analyst referred to Anthony Edwards, who suffered the same fate in Round 1 after suffering a bone bruise and knee hyperextension. However, he returned to the roster after missing just two games in the first round.
On the other hand, Embiid missed about a month due to his appendicitis surgery, and the 76ers suffered a struggling Round 1 run. If the 76ers want to continue their postseason stint, Embiid will have to return and perform at the highest level.
The 76ers await Joel Embiid’s return in Round 2
The 76ers will look to end their losing run in Round 2. Fans expect Joel Embiid to return to the roster and make a similar comeback to what happened in Round 1. He averaged 28 points, nine rebounds, and seven assists in the first round.
The Knicks are on a terrific run in the postseason, with Jalen Brunson leading the team in every game. They will look to attain a 3-0 lead in the series, but the Philly fans will hope to end their disappointing playoff run and launch a comeback in Game 3 of the series.
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