Joel Embiid dropped 50 points in Game 3 against the New York Knicks to help the Philadelphia 76ers to a 125-114 win. The former MVP became the first player to score 50 points on fewer than 20 shots in a playoff game. Embiid was aggressive on the night as this game had major repercussions for Philly. He went to the free throw line 21 times, which shows how determined he was to help Philly win the game.
The big man has had an injury-riddled season so far. He was averaging over 34 PPG, but an injury to his knee meant that he would have to miss out on over two months of basketball. In his presence, the 76ers were looking like a formidable side in the East, but his injury led to them slipping into the Play-In tournament. Although they trail the series 2-1, Philly will be confident about their chances as Joel Embiid has been playing at a high level.
The former MVP has been in pain throughout the series against the Knicks as his injured knee keeps affecting him. He had an awkward fall in Game 1 and even went out of the game for a while before he made his way back in the second half. Joel Embiid had suffered an injury to the lateral meniscus on his left knee and had surgery for it in February. The centre also confirmed that he has been diagnosed with Bell’s Palsy, which is a condition that affects the facial nerve. Despite all of this, Embiid has been putting up big numbers to help the 76ers stay in contention.
Can Joel Embiid’s body survive the physicality of the playoffs?
Undoubtedly, Joel Embiid has been on a tear since the start of the Playoffs. His team is currently 2-1 down, but the former MVP is not leaving any stone unturned. He came back from his surgery just in time for the Playoffs and since returning the big man has picked up from where he left off. However, he is putting all these brilliant stats at the expense of his own body.
Joel Embiid’s knee has troubled him since he was drafted into the NBA. Although he has been playing through them this years playoffs, the big man needs to be careful as these are the injuries that could shorten his career. The 76ers have a great roster and could make a deep playoff run riding on Joel Embiid’s back. But the postseason is hectic and it is unimaginable to think that the former MVP could lead the 76ers to a championship in this physical condition. Many expected the team to shut him down for the entire season as his knee was injured once again. However, the seven-time All-Star showcased resilience to be back with his team.
Joel Embiid has a history of playing through injuries in the playoffs
Embiid’s record in the playoffs is not something that he can be proud of. But his health has always been questionable in the postseason, which has resulted in his body breaking down late in the series. He missed two playoff games last season due to an injury. Although he came back, he did not elevate the team as he did in the regular season and this resulted in the 76ers’ exit in the second round.
Facing the Knicks with an injured star is not ideal as they play a physical brand of basketball. Embiid has been phenomenal and might even help them win this series, but statistically and historically, the former MVP might not be able to endure this for an entire postseason.
