Joel Embiid has had a controversial start to the 2024-25 NBA season without playing a game. Here's what happened and why he's on the cusp of returning.

The Philadelphia 76ers’ loss to the New York Knicks featured the season debut of Joel Embiid. The big man was far from his best self but being able to play was an important first step towards that level.

Joel Embiid's second media availability of the regular season -- and his first since being reinstated from a three-game suspension and stepping onto the floor for his season debut -- was full of Embiid's typical cat and mouse games.