by Embiid is coming back early from his ruptured sinus when Sixers vs. Hornets originally aired on NBC Sports Philadelphia
Joel Embiid returned earlier than planned on Friday evening.
Exactly a week after suffering a ruptured sinus during the Sixers’ loss to the Pacers, Embiid returned to the lineup against the Hornets. The Sixers’ other starters were Tyrese Maxey, Kelly Oubre Jr., Paul George and KJ Martin.
The team had said Monday that Embiid would be reevaluated in about a week, but he exceeded that prediction. Andre Drummond revealed Thursday that the seven-time All-Star had been practicing for the past two days and said, “To me he looks ready to play.”
“Obviously it’s up to him if he still feels comfortable going out there, but he looked good to me,” Drummond said. “He moved around. He wore his mask. … I think he looks good.”
Originally listed as questionable, Embiid completed his usual pregame workout and was confirmed ready to play about 30 minutes before the game began.
Before Friday, the 8-16 Sixers had only one complete game with the star trio of Embiid, Maxey and George. They won against the Bulls and Embiid scored 31 points and 12 rebounds.
In rare cases, the Sixers had fewer injury absences than their opponent.
The Sixers lost two players, Jared McCain (left lateral meniscus surgery) and Caleb Martin (right shoulder impingement). Charlotte was without five players, including LaMelo Ball (treatment for a left calf injury) and Brandon Miller (left ankle sprain).
