Sixers

Joel Embiid Clears Concussion Protocol (Updated)

By Kevin Kinkead

Published: May 6th, 2022 · 11:50 AM EDT

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From Shams:

76ers All-NBA star Joel Embiid has cleared concussion protocols. Dealing with orbital fracture and a torn ligament in thumb, Embiid is doing everything possible to be available to play in Game 3 tonight vs. Miami.

— Shams Charania (@ShamsCharania) May 6, 2022

Good news!

Now he just has to deal with a broken face and screwed up thumb while pulling his team out of a 0-2 series hole against the #1 seed. No pressure.

Something a friend brought up was the orbital fracture from the 2017-2018 season, you know, when Markelle Fultz clattered into him right before the playoffs. He made his postseason debut with the mask on, and played three games against Miami and five games against Boston, averaging 21 points, 13 rebounds, and three assists while turning the ball over about 3.5 times on average. He did play pretty well after coming back from the first time he broke his face, but that was almost five years ago and he also has the thumb issue now, so it’s really hard to compare the two. But now you have the numbers, if you wanted them.

Here’s what Embiid should wear tonight to protect his face:

EDIT –

There’s optimism Philadelphia 76ers star Joel Embiid will return tonight in Game 3 vs. Heat, sources tell @TheAthletic @Stadium. He has been fitted for a mask and will need to feel comfortable before green light. One of the NBA's great play-through-pain efforts recently.

— Shams Charania (@ShamsCharania) May 6, 2022