JOEL Embiid has been declared out for the rest of the season by the Philadelphia 76ers.
His status uncertain the past few weeks, the Sixers declared on Wednesday (Thursday, Manila time) the the rookie big man is out for the year due to a bone bruise and a torn meniscus in his left knee.
“The assessment of Monday’s follow-up MRI of Joel Embiid’s left knee appears to reveal that the area affected by the bone bruise has improved significantly, while the previously identified meniscus tear appears more pronounced in this most recent scan,” said Sixers Chief Medical Director Jonathan Glashow.
“We will continue to work with leading specialists to gather additional information through clinical examination and sequential testing to determine the best course of action and next steps,” added Dr. Glashow, also Co-Chief of Sports Medicine Orthopedics at New York’s Mount Sinai Medical Center.
The 22-year-old Embiid played 31 games, averaging 20.2 points, 7.8 rebounds and 2.5 blocks in 25.4 minutes.
“Our primary objective and focus remains to protect his long-term health and ability to perform on the basketball court,” said Bryan Colangelo, 76ers President of Basketball Operations.
“As our medical team and performance staff continue their diligence in the evaluation, treatment, and rehabilitation of Joel’s injury, we will provide any pertinent updates when available.”