Joel Embiid will play Saturday vs. T-Wolves

Update, Nov. 27 — Embiid will play Saturday against the Timberwolves, making his return to the court for the 76ers.

Update, Nov. 27 — Embiid is a game-time decision for Saturday against the Timberwolves. Harris is also a game-time decision.

Update, Nov. 26 — Embiid and SF Tobias Harris are expected to be listed as questionable to play in Saturday’s game vs. the Timberwolves. There were reports from earlier in the week that Embiid is likely to return to the lineup after missing a few weeks following his positive Covid-19 test.

Philadelphia 76ers C Joel Embiid could return to the lineup Saturday vs. the Minnesota Timberwolves, The Athletic’s Shams Charania reported on Wednesday afternoon. Embiid is ramping up training this week in practice and the team is optimistic the All-Star can get back in the lineup to start the weekend.

If Embiid is unable to go on Saturday, Charania reports the Sixers center could end up being back Monday vs. the Orlando Magic. Either way, the Sixers will be getting a key piece back in the fold soon. The team has been treading water dealing with Covid-19 protocols and injuries to key players like Matisse Thybulle, Danny Green, Tobias Harris and Seth Curry. Since Embiid was placed in protocols, the Sixers are 2-6.

We could see the Sixers take it easy with Embiid when he returns to the lineup. That could mean a minutes restriction to start out so he doesn’t injure himself going too hard. Andre Drummond will head back to the bench with Embiid back at center. Drummond was a strong DFS and season-long fantasy basketball option while Embiid was out. Once he is back, Drummond may still hold some value depending on how the Sixers handle things. Drummond is also worth hanging onto in season-long formats given his role when players are injured.