Could Joel Embiid Return Against the Celtics?

Hope is returning for Philadelphia. Joel Embiid, sidelined since his emergency appendectomy on April 9, took an important step in his recovery by partially participating in Thursday’s practice. The All-Star center for the 76ers remains questionable for Friday’s Game 3 against the Celtics, but his presence at practice is an encouraging sign.

This progress comes at a crucial moment for the Sixers, who leveled the series at 1-1 after their 111-97 victory on Tuesday in Boston. Nick Nurse’s squad had suffered a heavy 123-91 defeat in Game 1 before bouncing back thanks to standout performances from VJ Edgecombe and Tyrese Maxey, who combined for 59 points.

LIRE AUSSI

NBA Playoffs: VJ Edgecombe Leads the Sixers to a Historic Upset

22 avr. 2026

Nicolas Flamecourt

A Lightning Return That Would Defy All Medical Expectations

« We are obviously very optimistic and I think he is too, » said Nurse after Thursday’s practice. « He wants to play and we want him to play. I don’t know how close we are to that at this point, but I think there’s some progress. »

A return for the center, just 15 days after his surgery, would be a remarkable medical feat. The 7-foot Cameroonian had begun a strength training program on Monday before progressing to on-court drills. His last appearance was on April 6 in a 115-102 loss against San Antonio, where he recorded 34 points and 12 rebounds.

The potential impact of Embiid, even at reduced capacity, would be significant for the Sixers. This season, the 2023 MVP was averaging 26.9 points and 7.7 rebounds in 38 games, and the team posted 8.6 more points per 100 possessions with him on the floor. Against a formidable Celtics squad, even a diminished version of the center could make the difference in this series, which now shifts to Pennsylvania for the next two games.

Nick Nurse on Joel Embiid, who participated in parts of today’s practice.

« I think we’re going to know a lot more probably by the end of today where he is…He wants to play and we want him to play. I don’t know how close we are to that at this point, but I there’s some progress… pic.twitter.com/yQYVuS3MPV

— PHLY Sixers (@PHLY_Sixers) April 23, 2026