Part of the team's struggles stem from the lack of availability from former MVP Joel Embiid, who has played just 18 of the 55 games this season. Embiid had meniscus surgery on his left knee last February and returned to the court in April, but he missed the first nine games of this season due to management of the same knee.

Joel Embiid's knee injury continues to give him problems. The 76ers superstar knows how much it’s limiting him.

Since his return from a 15-game absence due to this knee issue, Embiid's contributions on the court have been notable but not up to his usual standards. Over the past 18 games, he has averaged 24.3 points, 8.2 rebounds, and 4.4 assists per game.