Joel Embiid health continues to be a massive talking point throughout his career.
Philadelphia 76ers star Joel Embiid is once again the center of conversation regarding his health and long-term availability.
The former league MVP has spent more time on the bench than on the court this season, with injuries continuing to take a toll on him. He recently sat out five games for the 76ers, forcing the Sixers to navigate a tough stretch without their franchise cornerstone.
During a segment on First Things First, Fox Sports analyst and host Chris Broussard left Joel Embiid off the player ranking and was blunt about his reasoning.
"The guy who can't be on, I'm sorry, Joel Embiid," Broussard said. "For him, he seems like he played a lot because he played 31 games, but now he's out again with the knee and the shin, and so who knows when we will see him again."
Broussard made it clear that his omission wasn't about his talent.
"I agree that he is still a phenomenal player," Broussard continues. "But I have no confidence whatsoever that he is ever going to play consistently for any significant period of time."
When healthy, Embiid is one of the best players in the NBA; however, health concerns have followed Embiid throughout what has been a phenomenal career. So far this season, the star center has suited up for 31 games due to load management and lingering knee issues that have limited his availability. As things stand, he's probable for the 76ers' matchup against the Miami Heat on Thursday.
He has several injuries that have plagued what has been a phenomenal career for the seven-time All-Star.
He returned on Tuesday in the 76ers' 135-114 victory over the Indiana Pacers, where Embiid recorded 27 points, five assists, and six rebounds in 27 minutes. An encouraging sign for a Sixers team hoping to build some momentum as the season unwinds. Looking comfortable, offensive, and scoring in the paint and spreading the floor.
As the saying goes, the best ability is availability, and for the 76ers, keeping Embiid healthy for the postseason remains the priority, because when he plays, the Sixers are legitimate contenders.
Join The 76ersRoundtable Community
Head over to the 76ersRoundtable page and hit the "Join" button under the featured story... it's completely FREE! You'll have the opportunity to engage with other 76ers fans who live and breathe the team, share your thoughts on the organization, and more. If you're asked to sign up or download the Roundtable app... that's free too.
Elijah Hamilton is a contributing writer to 76ersRoundtable.