Joel Embiid investigation likely after Sixers chose to bench him for opener, sources say

The NBA is likely to begin an investigation later this week 76ers center Joel Embiidhis players’ participation, a league source confirmed Wednesday.

The 2023 MVP did not play in games or practice during this preseason as he continued to play this season with his surgically repaired left knee. On Tuesday, the Sixers announced Embiid would miss this week’s matches for what the team described as left knee injury management.

“Listen, I don’t have any thoughts on that,” coach Nick Nurse said about the possible investigation. “Nobody in our organization told me anything about it. So as far as the investigation goes, I don’t really know.”

The Sixers open the season Wednesday night against the Milwaukee Bucks at the Wells Fargo Center. They will then play road games against the Toronto Raptors (Friday) and Indiana Pacers (Sunday).

Sources said the league often investigates when one of its marquee players misses a nationally televised game. The Sixers’ home opener against the Bucks will be televised by ESPN.

The team said Embiid is responding well to his individual plan and expects to ramp up his return-to-play activities this week, including playing in games.

The league’s player participation policy was implemented last season as a way to improve competitiveness, fan interest and the integrity of the game.

Under the policy, teams must have a good reason to bench a healthy star player. They are also not allowed to have multiple star players at the same time. Stars must also be available for nationally and in-season televised tournament contests.

Sixers All-Star Paul George (Bruised left knee) will also miss Wednesday’s game.

ESPN was the first to report the news.