Joel Embiid's former teammate with the Philadelphia 76ers had a candid reaction to the star's knee issues. Here's what Embiid's former teammate said.
Joel Embiid's Ex-Teammate's Candid Reaction to 76ers Star's Knee Issues originally appeared on Athlon Sports.
Joel Embiid, the star of the Philadelphia 76ers, has suffered from several ailments during his career. Although he's often made a successful return, one injury has bothered him for so long. Embiid's knee issues have affected his availability and effectiveness on the floor.
He suffered from knee issues last season as a result of tearing his left meniscus during the 2023–24 season. Many believed he was ready as he participated in the 2024 Paris Olympics and represented Team USA.
Unfortunately for the 2023 MVP, he ought to have worked out during his downtime. Embiid was then limited to just 19 games last year, averaging 23.8 points, 8.2 rebounds and 4.5 assists. His unavailability affected the team's performance and the 76ers missed the playoffs for the first time since 2018.
On Wednesday, ESPN's Dotun Akintoye covered Embiid and his response to the critics while getting ready this summer. In his piece, former 76ers forward Nicolas Batum revealed that he's seen the star's knee multiple times. The veteran French basketball star gave a candid reaction to the Cameroonian star's knee injuries.
"I was sitting next to him in the locker room," Batum said. "I saw his knee before every game, after every game. I saw his knee. I have no idea how he could even walk."
I wrote about Joel. https://t.co/Rm7IQvH8Bi
— Dotun Akintoye (@YNGNKL) July 16, 2025
Embiid wants to change the narrative and have a strong campaign for the 2025-26 season. The seven-time All-Star has proven that he's capable of being one of the best players in the NBA. However, his health has been affected gravely, limiting him in the past few seasons.
This offseason, he's focused on getting his body right before the season starts. The 2025-26 campaign could be a revenge year for Embiid.
Related: Paul George Mocks the Charlotte Hornets' Lack of Winning Culture
This story was originally reported by Athlon Sports on Jul 17, 2025, where it first appeared.
Category: Basketball
