NJ CAMDEN – Joel Embiid, a centre for the Philadelphia 76ers, has had a difficult start to the 2022–23 campaign. Their top big man hasn’t looked fantastic, and the Sixers are 0-2 thus far.
Following a 15-point performance in a defeat to the Milwaukee Bucks, Sixers head coach Doc Rivers provided some crucial context for his center’s difficulties. Reporters were informed by him that Embiid had plantar fasciitis this offseason, but he later emphasised that Embiid is not now afflicted by it.
Before the season began, during training camp, he experienced a small case of plantar fasciitis, which forced him to discontinue his conditioning regimen, according to Rivers on Friday afternoon. He then turns back to that. But pay attention; he’s playing honestly. He simply didn’t take the play well, but that’s alright too. That will take place. We still need to prevail in those contests.
Joel Embiid has been further hindered by a new illness ahead of a vital Sixers season after already having to contend with a thumb sprain, an orbital fracture, and a concussion in last year’s playoffs. In the first game of the season against the Boston Celtics, he finished with 26 points, 15 rebounds, and 5 assists on 9/18 shooting. Despite the outstanding numbers, he struggled against the formidable Celtics defence, committing four fouls and six turnovers. Then, in a game against the Bucks, he finished with 12 rebounds, four turnovers, three assists, and 15 points in the first half on 6 of 21 shooting.
After the game, Rivers defended Embiid’s bad performance by noting that it wasn’t one of his best performances and that he still made a contribution in other areas. Embiid often had a slow start before ramping up his output, and given that he is fully healthy, he should do the same this season. At 6:00 PM EST on Saturday, the Sixers’ next game is against the San Antonio Spurs.
The article, “Joel Embiid injury revelation helps to explain Sixers 2022–23 season’s tough start,” first appeared on ClutchPoints.
