Joel Embiid Starts Recovery Program After Appendectomy, Timeline Uncertain

The team hopes he can return at some point during the series, though that window may narrow quickly depending on how competitive the Sixers prove to be. Without Embiid, Boston was able to direct greater defensive focus toward Tyrese Maxey and Paul George, neutralizing Philadelphia's halfcourt attack. The Celtics have no reliable matchup for Embiid in isolation, and his absence allowed Boston to apply suffocating pressure elsewhere. Philadelphia responded with a pointed practice and film session Monday. Nick Nurse indicated the session was more targeted than usual. Normally, we go over film in general on offense and defense and special teams, Nurse said. Not today. We were much more specific today. The Sixers were visibly disappointed with both their effort and output in Game 1 and expect a sharper performance going forward despite entering the series as underdogs. Embiid appeared in 38 regular season games, averaging just over 26 points per game. Coming off nearly two years of knee problems, he demonstrated he remains among the league's most imposing offensive forces when healthy. The original plan was to manage his workload during the regular season to ensure he was fully available for the playoffs.