Embiid was diagnosed with appendicitis last week and underwent surgery, sidelining him for three games to end the regular season. He finished the year having played 38 games, averaging 26.9 points, 7.7 rebounds, and 3.9 assists per contest.
In the NBA Play-In against the Orlando Magic, Embiid was ruled out on the eve of the matchup and wasn’t expected to participate in the tournament. The Sixers defeated the Magic to clinch a playoff berth and will now square off with Boston in the first round.
There has been no official timeline set for Embiid’s return. Following his discharge from the hospital, the team said updates would be provided as necessary. He was released in Texas, and the organization indicated they would communicate further when appropriate.
Embiid returned to public view Wednesday, attending the game against Orlando. Head coach Nick Nurse said Embiid appeared optimistic and felt good, even as he remains unavailable to play in the early games of the series.
Game 1 against the Celtics is scheduled for Sunday at 1 p.m. ET, and Philadelphia will continue to prepare for the postseason with Embiid’s status as a key variable as the series unfolds.
