Philadelphia 76ers announced that their All-Star center Joel Embiid is doubtful for the Game 3 clash against the Miami Heat on Thursday night. The first round series between 76ers and Heat is tied 1-1 with Embiid missing both games.
Medical Update:
Joel Embiid – (orbital bone fracture, left eye) is doubtful for tomorrow night’s game at Miami.
— Philadelphia 76ers (@sixers) April 18, 2018
Joel Embiid has been out since March 28, when he suffered a broken orbital bone and a concussion in the game against the Knicks. The 24-year-old participated in 76ers practices on Tuesday and Wednesday. The team declined to give the definitive timetable for his return.
Philadelphia 76ers went on 9-0 run following Embiid’s injury, before suffering a 113-103 defeat at home in Game 2 against the Miami Heat. 76ers coach Brett Brown said earlier in the week that the team is focused on the player’s health and won’t rush him back to the court even if they fall back behind in the series.
“It’s about what’s best for Joel’s health,” – said Brown.
Brown also added that Embiid will not be 100 percent ready even when he returns.
“Whenever the time comes when he does play, I think [his conditioning will improve] in a more rapid way. His body looks great,” – he said. “If you just look at him physically, I think he looks fantastic. I feel like it will kick in quicker than most.“
After missing his rookie season with a foot injury, and playing only 31 games in his second season, Joel Embiid established himself as an NBA All-Star in 2017-18. He played in 63 games of the regular season, averaging 22.9 points, 11.0 rebounds, 3.2 assists and 1.8 blocks per game.
