The last time the Philadelphia 76ers had Joel Embiid on the court was on January 4 when they defeated the Brooklyn Nets. At the time, Embiid checked in for his

Winning league MVP in 2023, Embiid followed that campaign by playing just 39 games the next season. Having already missed 31 games entering Tuesday's game against the Los Angeles Lakers, Embiid is ineligible for season awards due to the league's 65-game minimum rule.

PHILADELPHIA -- As the Philadelphia 76ers now move forward with their season, one has to wonder about what comes next for Joel Embiid. The big fella has not played since Jan. 5 due to a left foot sprain that he suffered before a Christmas Day win over the Boston Celtics.

Embiid was sidelined due to a foot sprain that he was initially able to play through and sustained left knee swelling during his recovery which has delayed his return. According to Ky Carlin of Sixers Wire, Embiid was a partial participant in the team's practice on Monday and his knee has responded well to treatment.

There will be no Process 2.0 here, a half-season tank to ensure Philly retains its '25 first-round pick and lives to fight another season.