It’s becoming increasingly clear: if Joel Embiid doesn’t return for the Philadelphia 76ers soon, the team’s season is all but over.
The team has been struggling mightily without Embiid and is currently down 2-0 against the Miami Heat.
Embiid has been sidelined since the series began because of a head injury and concussion protocols.
But he’s been desperate to get back in the game – and he just might get his wish on Friday night.
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
Shams Charania reported that there’s optimism that Embiid will return for Game 3 against the Heat.
He has been fitted for a mask and his return will rely on his comfort level.
If Embiid does return, it would give the 76ers a chance – as small as it is – to get back in the series.
Saving The Day
The Sixers are barely holding on right now.
They knew they had tough odds going into the series against the Heat but they didn’t know it would be this bad.
At times, the team has looked as though they have no clue what to do.
Their offense has been troubled and their defense has been downright terrible.
Because of that, the Heat have been walking all over them and have earned two double-digit wins.
Things have gotten so bad that even if Embiid comes back, the chances of a comeback are razor-thin.
The Heat have never lost a series when up 2-0 and the 76ers have never come back when down 2-0.
But every situation is different and Embiid’s return really could add a boost to their chances.
However, in order to do that Embiid will need to play better than he ever has.
NEXT: NBA Insider Shares Joel Embiid Protocol Update