Joel Embiid, the reigning NBA MVP and center for the Philadelphia 76ers, returned to play in Game 1 of their first-round playoff series against the New York Knicks after suffering an injury scare during the second quarter. Embiid's return was met with relief from his teammates and coaches, as he had missed significant time earlier in the season due to a meniscus tear in his left knee.
The incident occurred late in the first half when Embiid threw down an impressive self-lob dunk off the backboard. However, upon landing, he immediately grabbed at his knee and went down to the ground. The 76ers' medical staff attended to him, but after a few minutes, Embiid was able to walk off under his own power and return to the bench.
Despite some initial concerns about the severity of the injury, Embiid took to the court once again in the second half. He finished with 29 points, eight rebounds, and six assists in a losing effort against the Knicks. The team's head coach, Nick Nurse, expressed his admiration for Embiid's determination and will to play.
Embiid had previously missed 30 games during the regular season due to the knee injury. He underwent surgery in February and made his return on April 2. However, he has continued to experience issues with the knee since then, leading some to question whether he should have attempted such a high-risk play during Saturday's game.
The Knicks took advantage of Embiid's absence in the first half, outscoring the 76ers by 11 points. Jalen Brunson led the way for New York with 22 points, seven rebounds, and seven assists. The series now shifts to Madison Square Garden for Game 2 on Monday.