After missing 10 games owing to a knee injury, Joel Embiid finally returned to the court against Minnesota Timberwolves. It was definitely a long-awaited return for the 76ers as Embiid played a pivotal role in their title hopes.
The Cameroonians presence was sorely missed by the team. In fact, this was very evident when the 76ers took to the court. There was a significant improvement in their body language as they rallied past the Timberwolves.
However, Embiid himself was somewhat disappointed when asked to reflect upon his performance. In the post-game press conference, he admitted that he was not yet up to the mark when it came to his duties on the offensive end of the court.
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— Philadelphia 76ers (@sixers) April 4, 2021
He said, “Defensively, it’s easy. I’ve got to just be myself. Block shots and protect the paint, not let anything get in there. But offensively, I’m going to kind of blame the brace I was wearing. It just felt like I just didn’t have the rhythm all game.”
He continued, “It felt like I had an itch on my shot, every single shot. It wasn’t smooth. I had no rhythm. I hate the brace and that was part of it. I’ve just got to get in sync with my teammates … but it’s going to come with time.”
Can Joel Embiid get back on track for the MVP award?
Before the injury, Embiid was a country-mile ahead of others when it came to the race for the MVP award. With a break of 10 games, players like Giannis Antetokounmpo and Nikola Jokic have overtaken him.
PHILADELPHIA, PA – APRIL 03: Joel Embiid #21 of the Philadelphia 76ers is fouled by Jaden McDaniels #3 of the Minnesota Timberwolves
The business end of the season is around the corner. Around this time every year, all the franchise teams hit their peak form as they try to prepare themselves for the postseason. With stalwarts like Joel Embiid and Ben Simmons in their squad, the 76ers will be confident about their prospects.
However, teams like the Milwaukee Bucks and the Brooklyn Nets are breathing down their necks to procure the top spot in the Eastern Conference. In order to keep these teams at bay, Embiid has to get back to his MVP caliber form as soon as possible.
