Joel Embiid was unavailable for the Sixers in their Game 1 defeat against the Celtics, but he is actively working toward a return after being diagnosed with appendicitis earlier this month that required surgery, Adam Aaronson of the Philly Voice reports.
The team says Embiid has started a strength and conditioning program as part of his recovery, though there is still no clear timetable for when he might be able to play again.
Despite dealing with multiple injuries throughout the season, Embiid has remained a key factor for Philadelphia. The Sixers posted a 24-14 record in games he played, compared to a 21-23 mark without him.
Over his playoff career against Boston, the big man has averaged 25.9 points, 11.5 rebounds, and 1.9 blocks across 15 games.
Philadelphia remains hopeful that Embiid can return at some point during the first round, but as Aaronson points out, that scenario would likely require the series to go beyond four games.
Joel Embiid has entered into a strength and conditioning program as he attempts to return from appendicitis. Story: https://t.co/RagD0lpMnZ
— Hoops Rumors (@HoopsRumors) April 21, 2026
