As the Philadelphia 76ers gear up for the 2025-26 NBA season, all eyes are on star center Joel Embiid and his health status. Head coach Nick Nurse recently provided a cautiously optimistic update about Embiid’s condition, but significant uncertainty remains regarding the availability of the reigning MVP as training camp approaches on October 1.
In an interview with talkSPORT, Nurse acknowledged that there are “a lot more decisions” to be made before training camp begins, particularly concerning whether Embiid will be ready to participate in the first session. The 31-year-old center has faced persistent injury challenges throughout his career, and his fitness is once again a hot topic of discussion.
“All the news is positive,” Nurse stated, emphasizing that Embiid is “working very, very hard” in his recovery. However, the reality is that Embiid’s history of injuries raises questions about his career longevity and the potential impact on the 76ers’ season.
Despite Nurse’s upbeat tone, reports from July indicated a more sobering outlook. Keith Pompey of the Philadelphia Inquirer suggested that Embiid may be coming to terms with the limitations his body imposes. In a candid moment during an interview with ESPN, Embiid expressed frustration over his repeated injuries, stating, “Every single year, you start asking yourself questions like, ‘Why?'” He reflected on the pain and exhaustion of long rehabilitation sessions, admitting, “I don’t know if I can do it again … I can’t do another minute.”
Last season was particularly challenging for Embiid, as he played only 19 games—the lowest total in any season where he appeared at all. Since being drafted first overall in 2014, the talented center has missed nearly half of his career games, totaling 452 absences over 11 seasons.
The uncertainty surrounding Embiid’s health is not just a preseason concern; it could significantly influence the trajectory of the 76ers’ entire season. Whether he is ready to take the court on October 1 or not, Philadelphia’s championship aspirations hinge on their superstar’s ability to remain healthy and contribute at his highest level.
As the 76ers prepare for this new season, the spotlight remains firmly on Joel Embiid. His performance and health will be critical in determining whether the franchise can compete for a title or face another year of disappointment. Fans and analysts alike will be closely monitoring updates as training camp approaches, hoping for the best for one of the league’s brightest stars.