76ers Star Joel Embiid Avoids Serious Injury After Crazy Self Alley-Oop In Game 1 Against Knicks

The Philadelphia 76ers dodged a nightmare scenario on Saturday evening in Game 1 of their first-round playoff matchup against the New York Knicks.

With just under three minutes left in the second quarter, center Joel Embiid picked up his dribble at the foul line, and looked to make a play. Instead of passing to a teammate, he called his own number and threw a lob to himself off the backboard.

The crowd erupted after the electric play, but only briefly. As soon as Embiid came back on the hardwood, he grabbed his left knee and laid down in obvious pain.

Naturally, fans had flashbacks to when he had surgery on that same knee in February, which caused him to miss 30 games. Those fears were heightened as Embiid made his way to the locker room shortly thereafter.

Embiiod lies on the ground after his injury scare. Fortunately, he was able to return. (Photo: Wendell Cruz-USA TODAY Sports)

Fortunately, he came back for the start of the third and played significant minutes after his injury. Unfortunately, his presence (and 29 points) weren’t enough to overcome the Knicks, who won Game 1, 111-104.

Despite the loss, I’m sure the 76ers would rather lose Game 1 than their best player. His health will certainly be a storyline worth watching as the series progresses.