76ers’ Joel Embiid Targeted to Return Before Playoffs, per Report

The reigning NBA MVP has been out since January due to a left knee injury.

Joel Embiid hasn’t played in a game since January as he recovers from a meniscus injury in his left knee, but the timetable for his return is getting closer. NBC Sports Philadelphia’s John Clark reports the Philadelphia 76ers expect their star center back in action by the first or second week in April, which would allow the reigning MVP to finish the regular season.

Embiid was diagnosed with a torn meniscus in early February, sidelining the center indefinitely. Before his injury, Embiid played in 34 games for Philadelphia and averaged 35.3 points, 11.3 rebounds and 5.7 assists per game.

Embiid previously stated that he hoped to return to the court before the end of the regular season, and that timeline appears to remain on track. Philadelphia will play seven games in April this year, with the regular-season finale coming on April 14.

Sixers center Joel Embiid is reportedly on track to return in time for the playoffs from a knee injury he suffered in January :: Bill Streicher/USA Today sports

Getting the reigning NBA MVP back is crucial for the 76ers’ playoff hopes. The team has struggled without Embiid, going 10–21 in 31 games without Embiid this season. On the flip side, Philadelphia is 26–7 with Embiid in the lineup.

Philadelphia (36–29) currently sits in sixth place in the Eastern Conference. The 76ers are percentage points ahead of the Indiana Pacers (37–30), to avoid the play-in tournament.