Joel Embiid's status for the rest of the 2021 playoffs remains unclear, and Philadelphia 76ers head coach Doc Rivers hinted as much on Wednesday ahead of their Game 5 with the Washington Wizards.
Speaking to reporters, Rivers admitted that he doesn't know when Embiid will be able to return to the Sixers' lineup. He is certain that the All-Star big man will suit up once again, but it can be in the next game or somewhere deep in the second round or more should they make it.
Sixers coach Doc Rivers believes Joel Embiid will be able to return at some point during the playoffs. pic.twitter.com/bdSJng3urs
— ClutchPoints (@ClutchPointsApp) June 2, 2021
Joel Embiid suffered an apparent knee injury in Game 4 after a scary fall. Without him, the Wizards were able to beat Philly and avoid playoff elimination via sweep.
Before Game 5, the Sixers announced that the Cameroonian center will be sidelined due to a small lateral meniscus tear in his right knee. He has since been listed as day-to-day as the team explores their options for his treatment.
For what it's worth, Doc Rivers' statement on the injury doesn't give a lot of hope and confidence to fans. While the Sixers are ahead of the Wizards 3-1 and just need one win to close out the series, Embiid's absence could be a huge issue just like what happened in Game 4.
Not to mention that JoJo is an MVP candidate and unarguably the most important player on the team. He's someone the team can't replace, and they will need him if they want to win it all this campaign. Unfortunately, fans will have to wait and see how long he'll be out.
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