(Sports Correspondent: Imran Sohail)
Philadelphia 76ers Face Grueling 2025-26 Schedule as Joel Embiid Recovery Raises Concerns
Philadelphia, PA – The Philadelphia 76ers are bracing for a challenging 2025-26 NBA season after the league released a schedule packed with 16 back-to-back games — the most in the NBA, tied with the Denver Nuggets, Phoenix Suns, Charlotte Hornets, and Washington Wizards.
This heavy schedule is especially concerning for Joel Embiid, the Sixers’ franchise star, who is still recovering from arthroscopic knee surgery in April. Embiid has openly stated that he will no longer play in back-to-back games for the remainder of his career, a decision he first revealed to ESPN’s Tim Bontemps before last season.
The reigning MVP signed a massive three-year, $193 million extension in 2024 but managed to appear in just 19 games last season due to persistent knee problems — his lowest since his rookie year. His availability for the opening games of 2025-26 remains uncertain.
The Sixers’ playoff hopes could take a serious hit if Embiid misses multiple stretches during the season, particularly in a highly competitive Eastern Conference.
Adding to the challenge, veteran forward Paul George, who also battled injuries in 2024-25, is expected to sit out most back-to-backs as well. At 35 years old, George’s load management could leave the Sixers without two of their biggest stars in several key games.
With so many double-headers ahead, Philadelphia’s depth and rotation will be tested like never before. For a team aiming to contend, the question is clear: Can the Sixers stay healthy enough to make a deep playoff run?
