Joel Embiid surgery delayed, but still expected

Joel Embiid has not yet had a second surgery on his troublesome right foot, but he is expected to in the 'near future,' according to a report from CSNPhilly.com.

The Sixers announced nearly a month ago that the surgery would likely take place within 7-10 days; a timeline that obviously didn't pan out. Updates on the surgery have been non-existent since the initial announcement, leading to some speculation that Embiid and the Sixers were at odds on the issue.


The delay in the surgery however is explained simply as Embiid 'coming to terms' with the decision. From CSNPhilly:

     "When asked about the delay, one source said it was partly because Embiid -- who is 21 and who, according to president/general manager Sam Hinkie, has been pain-free -- was coming to terms with the decision. The source indicated that Embiid and his confidants wanted more time to review the matter and select a doctor. A doctor has been chosen, though the source declined to provide that information."

At this point, Embiid is extremely eager to play, and understandably so. It is very difficult for him to agree to be sidelined for another season, especially since he appeared very close to a return not too long ago. But, it is not that Embiid is against having the surgery it seems, more so just that he and his team are doing their due diligence in gathering information and talking to various doctors. Embiid has even reached out to former NBA MVP Kevin Durant, according to the report. Durant recently underwent a similar surgery to the one Embiid is expected to receive.

On the bright side, it is good that Embiid and the Sixers aren't at odds over the issue, as that could have gotten ugly. But, as it stands, there remains no date set in stone for the second surgery, and Embiid remains expected to miss the 2015-16 season.