After an eight-month absence from the court, Joel Embiid made his long-awaited return for the Philadelphia 76ers in their preseason finale against the Minnesota Timberwolves, and he didn’t just play, he made a statement.
Embiid, who was limited to just 19 games last season due to injury, started the game and looked sharp from the opening tip. In just 19 minutes of action, he posted 14 points, 7 rebounds, 8 assists, and 3 steals, helping the Sixers secure a 126–110 victory. Sharing the frontcourt with second-year big man Adem Bona, Embiid showed flashes of his MVP form, including a deep three-point attempt just seconds into the game.
A return to remember for Joel Embiid tonight 🔔
14 PTS | 7 REB | 8 AST | 3 STL | 18 MIN pic.twitter.com/AgnSIryKGn
— NBA (@NBA) October 18, 2025
Coach Nick Nurse kept Embiid’s minutes short, but the impact was undeniable. The team outscored Minnesota by 12 points while Embiid was on the floor.
After the game, Embiid addressed the media in an emotionally charged interview. When asked about his passing and overall performance, he responded with a pointed remark:
“I see all these guys. I’m here to help out. According to a lot of your peers, I’m not even a top 100 basketball player in this league. So I guess I just gotta fit in and see where I can help the team win.”
Embiid on the thinking behind his hit-ahead passes tonight: “I see all these guys. I’m here to help out. According to a lot of your peers, I’m not even a top 100 basketball player in this league. So I guess I just gotta fit in and see where I can help the team win.” pic.twitter.com/nb76QuWHPQ
— Austin Krell (@NBAKrell) October 18, 2025
The quote, delivered with a mix of sarcasm and sincerity, reflected Embiid’s frustration with recent media narratives questioning his value and leadership.
Embiid’s return marks a turning point for the Sixers, who are looking to bounce back from a turbulent season.
