Joel Embiid faced persistent doubts throughout the last three months of 2025 as questions swirled about his ability to perform at an MVP-caliber level. Despite a stretch where he showed glimpses of being the NBA’s best, recurring knee soreness resurfaced, casting a shadow over his comeback hopes for the Philadelphia 76ers.
During a period roughly spanning from late October to the end of December, Embiid played 14 games but struggled significantly, managing just a 43.7 percent field goal rate and a mere 25.0 percent shooting from beyond the arc. His rebounding also dipped to 6.7 boards per game over 27.7 minutes, fueling widespread skepticism about his durability and form.
Strong Performance Since January Highlights Embiid’s Impact
The narrative surrounding Embiid shifted dramatically after the new year. Starting January 1, he averaged an impressive 29.9 points per game, displaying outstanding shooting splits of .535 from the field, .397 from three-point range, and .867 at the free-throw line. Over his last 15 contests, no NBA player outscored his remarkable 33.1 points per game, with an even more efficient combined shooting percentage of .529/.529/.869.
While the knee issues remain a concern, his dominant performances have reinforced the belief that Embiid still commands the game as one of the league’s best players when healthy.
Health Challenges and Team Implications for the 76ers
The biggest concern for the 76ers remains Embiid’s availability. There was once serious doubt as to whether Embiid could recover his star form, and if the answer had been negative, Philadelphia would have faced a difficult position with a highly paid player unable to lead at the required level.
Fortunately, Embiid’s resurgence since the start of 2026 offers hope that the team can compete at the highest levels as they approach the playoffs. His presence clearly makes a difference: since January 1, the 76ers have gone 12-5 in games with Embiid versus a 1-5 record without him.
Key Wins Boost 76ers’ Playoff Confidence
The victories during this stretch include notable wins against competitive postseason-caliber teams such as the Houston Rockets, New York Knicks, Phoenix Suns, and Toronto Raptors. These results suggest that Philadelphia still has the talent and potential to remain a strong playoff contender, as long as Embiid remains healthy and effective.
Future Outlook Hinges on Embiid’s Recovery
All attention is now focused on Embiid’s knee status as the playoffs near. He has roughly two months to reach full health, and if he accomplishes that, the 76ers can be optimistic about his ability to dominate and lead them deep into postseason play.
By overcoming doubts and demonstrating his MVP-caliber talent, Embiid has alleviated concerns about his declining performance, reigniting hope among the team and fans alike.
“Since Jan. 1, the 76ers are 12-5 when Embiid plays and 1-5 when he doesn’t.” ?Unnamed source
“If nothing else, that leaves the impression that Philadelphia can still compete at a high level when Embiid is healthy.” ?Unnamed source
