Two games in, and the Philadelphia 76ers have the first-round series against the Boston Celtics tied 1-1. Joel Embiid has yet to step foot on the court since the postseason started with a Play-In game last week.
Recently, Embiid was diagnosed with appendicitis. After undergoing surgery, the Sixers missed the veteran center for the final three games of the season. He also missed the Play-In game, along with two matchups against the Celtics.
Despite their superstar’s absence, the Sixers took care of business against the Celtics on Tuesday. They tied the series up with a big game from VJ Edgecombe and Tyrese Maxey.
As the young backcourt continues to show impressive flashes, one notable radio host in Philadelphia made his feelings clear on a possible Embiid return to action.
via SportsRadioWIP: Joe Giglio says he does NOT want to see Joel Embiid return for this series. 🤔
Why Joel Embiid Shouldn’t Return
GettyPHILADELPHIA, PENNSYLVANIA – NOVEMBER 30: Joel Embiid #21 of the Philadelphia 76ers looks on during the second half against the Atlanta Hawks at Xfinity Mobile Arena on November 30, 2025 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Emilee Chinn/Getty Images)
“I don’t need to see Joel Embiid come back in this series,” he started.
“I don’t need to see it. I’m good! I want to watch Edgecombe and Maxey. Wherever it goes, it goes. If it goes out in five, it goes out in five. If it goes out in six, it goes out in six. I want to see these two lead the way. I want to see them having the runway to be the two leading the way. I don’t need Embiid back in this series, even if he’s pushing to play or getting close to play, I’m good, big fella. I just want to roll with the kids. I don’t need it.”
It’s true that if Embiid were to make his way back out on the floor for the Sixers, he would instantly eat into touches for Edgecombe and take away shots from Maxey. At the same time, Embiid is one of the best scorers in the NBA when healthy. It would be foolish to keep the ball out of his hands.
Clearly, Giglio doesn’t want the Sixers in a position where they see Edgecombe take a backseat. He’s willing to live with the results as long as it means not doing the same thing over again.
What Are Joel Embiid’s Chances Of Returning?
GettyPHILADELPHIA, PENNSYLVANIA – JANUARY 24: Joel Embiid #21 of the Philadelphia 76ers looks on during the second half against the New York Knicks at Xfinity Mobile Arena on January 24, 2026 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Emilee Chinn/Getty Images)
Recently, Embiid started strength and conditioning, which is a critical next step in his recovery. However, the Sixers still haven’t revealed an actual timeline for his return.
Many doctors without direct involvement estimated his recovery timetable could be anywhere between two and four weeks. Thursday, April 23, marks two weeks since the surgery. May 7 is the four-week mark.
As time passes, and Embiid hasn’t started ramping up basketball activity, his chances of playing in the first round seem to be fading. Until the Sixers offer another update, Embiid’s chances of returning remain unclear.