Sixers’ Joel Embiid out for rest of the season

The Sixers got 31 games out of Joel Embiid and still could get a Rookie of the Year out of him as he averaged incredible numbers for limited time on the floor (just under 25 minutes per game).

But that’s all they’ll get from him.

After an MRI Monday and a lengthy delay, the Sixers’ medical staff and front office finally told fans thatEmbiid’s status has been changed from out indefinitely to out for the remainder of this season.

“The assessment of Monday’s follow-up MRI of Joel Embiid’s left knee appears to reveal that the area affected by the bone bruise has improved significantly, while the previously identified meniscus tear appears more pronounced in this most recent scan,”Dr. Jonathan Glashow,Sixers chief medical director said. “We will continue to work with leading specialists to gather additional information through clinical examination and sequential testing to determine the best course of action and next steps.”

Embiidhas not played since Jan. 27 and the nature of his injury semeed to change several times as the medical staff pushed the goalposts further and further back on his return.

He attended but did not play in the NBA rookie challenge and practiced with the team several times, making it appear like a return was imminent. Obviously it isn’t now.

“Our primary objective and focus remains to protect his long-term health and ability to perform on the basketball court,”Sixers President of Basketball Operations Bryan Colangelosaid. “As our medical team and performance staff continue their diligence in the evaluation, treatment and rehabilitation of Joel’s injury, we will provide any pertinent updates when available.”