Joel Embiid Silences Doubters with Unstoppable Preseason Display—What He Did Next Will Shock You

So, Joel Embiid stepped back onto the court Friday night, and boy, did he make a statement—though maybe not the one some naysayers expected. He put up a stat line in just 19 minutes that screamed, “I’m still the powerhouse Philly needs,” with 14 points, seven boards, eight assists, and a trio of steals. Now, here’s the kicker: the media’s been whispering—and at times shouting—that Embiid isn’t even a top 100 player in the league. Can you believe that? It’s almost comical, yet here he was, quietly defying those doubts. But here’s a question to chew on: when a titan of his caliber is coming off injury, how do you balance the hunger to perform with the wisdom to heal? Philly fans, brace yourselves—the road ahead is uncertain, but if this preseason spark is any indication, Embiid’s fire isn’t out just yet.

Minnesota Timberwolves v Philadelphia 76ers — (Photo by Emilee Chinn/Getty Images)

Philadelphia 76ers fans were treated to something special on Friday night because they got to see Joel Embiid play.

The big man was part of Philadelphia’s lineup during their preseason game against the Minnesota Timberwolves, and he didn’t disappoint during his 19 minutes on the court.

He posted 14 points, seven rebounds, eight assists, and three steals.

Following the game, Embiid had some words for the people who have been criticizing and questioning him.

“According to a lot of (the media), I’m not even a top 100 basketball player in this league. So I guess I just gotta fit in and see where I can help the team win,” Embiid said.

“According to a lot of (the media), I’m not even a top 100 basketball player in this league. So I guess I just gotta fit in and see where I can help the team win.”

— Joel Embiid on his passing in tonight’s game

(via @NBAKrell) pic.twitter.com/2EPvPEVSmj

— Legion Hoops (@LegionHoops) October 18, 2025

On Friday morning, Embiid was cleared to play, a great sign that signaled rehab on his knee is headed in the right direction.

19 minutes typically isn’t a lot, but it is for a preseason game, and Embiid made the most of it.

He reminded fans why he’s such a special player and what he can do when he’s in good shape.

Of course, there are still so many questions about Embiid and the road ahead.

The team hasn’t revealed if he will be on a minutes restriction when the season starts next week, and he could spend a lot of time on the bench, or out of games entirely.

The Sixers don’t want to rush this process, or they could injure Embiid even more, and he could once again miss weeks if not months.

One preseason game doesn’t alleviate all the concerns about Embiid, but it does put a smile on the faces of millions of fans.

They are more hopeful about their best player, even if there are still concerns.

The post Joel Embiid Sends Message To Critics With Big Preseason Performance appeared first on The Cold Wire.