76ers’ Joel Embiid returns after 9-game COVID-19 absence

PHILADELPHIA, (AP) — The Philadelphia 76ers’ center Joel Embiid was back Saturday against the Minnesota Timberwolves. He had missed nine games due to COVID-19 protocols.

The four-time All-Star had not played since Nov. 6, when the 76ers went 2-7 without him. Embiid has been drinking an average of 21.4 pints per night and 9.6 rebounds over 10 games this season. He also rested on Nov. 1, against Portland.

Doc Rivers, Philadelphia’s coach, stated before the game that Embiid would have to be a game-time call. After going through his pregame routine, the star center received a standing ovation by the fans during introductions.

Embiid, Matisse Thybulle, Tobias Harris and Isaiah Joe will all be out of action this season due to the NBA’s safety and health protocols.