Joel Embiid reveals what he’s ‘happiest’ about since his debut

Joel Embiid returned to action on October 17 at Philadelphia 76ers‘ preseason finale against the Minnesota Timberwolves, his first game since late February. The seven-time All-Star checked in 19 minutes after missing nearly eight months recovering from left knee surgery.

Speaking after his return, Embiid opened up about Fr what that moment meant to him.

“I’m just in a good space mentally, physically. I’m just happy to touch the basketball and be able to do what I love. When you don’t get that, it’s tough. That’s what I’m happiest about,” Embiid said after the game, per Derek Bodner of X .

Embiid finished with 14 points on 5-of-10 shooting, seven rebounds, eight assists and three steals against the Timberwolves. He drained a 3-pointer just seven seconds after the tip, eager to shake off the rust from his extended layoff.

Coach Nick Nurse managed his minutes carefully, playing him six minutes in the first quarter, three minutes in the second quarter and short bursts in the third quarter before shutting him down for the night. The sister later said he was pleased with Embiid’s performance and that the game went according to plan.

Philadelphia beat Minnesota by 12 points during Embiid’s time on the floor in a 126-110 win. Rookie VJ Edgecombe put on a show with 26 pointsgiving fans a glimpse into the future of the team along with their return to the heart of the franchise.

The 2023 MVP underwent arthroscopic surgery on his left knee in April 2025, his second knee surgery in 14 months. Ongoing swelling and soreness limited him to just 19 games last season, where he averaged 23.8 points, 8.2 rebounds and 4.5 assists before the 76ers cut him on Feb. 28.

His rehabilitation lasted throughout the summer and fall, with gradual progress through shooting work and team drills. Philadelphia is taking a careful approach to ensure its star stays healthy.

Embiid expressed confidence that he will play consistently when Philadelphia opens the regular season on Oct. 22 against the Boston Celtics. His controlled return and positive mindset provide hope that Philadelphia’s championship window will remain open and their franchise center back on the field.