Joel Embiid has been cleared to play in Game 1 of the NBA playoffs.
Embiid has not played since April 6 due to a knee issue, which had the Philadelphia 76ers saying they were unsure if he would be available for Game 1 of their first round series against the Brooklyn Nets. That changed on Saturday when Embiid was cleared to play in the game.
Embiid’s status is one of the biggest key factors in the postseason. He’s averaging 27.5 points and 13.6 rebounds per game this season and has the ability to dominate games. Philly can still play well without him, but they’re a Finals contender when he’s healthy.
As of Friday, Embiid told reporters he had “no idea” about his playing status for Saturday’s game.
