Six months ago, the idea of Joel Embiid playing at an All-Star level in January 2026 would've sounded like a reach. After all, every injury update in recent years has felt like another chapter in the slow decline of one of the league’s most dominant big men. But here we are - and somehow, some way, Embiid is back on the floor and making a serious impact.
No, he’s not putting up the jaw-dropping, MVP-level numbers that once made him the most unstoppable force in the league. But he’s honest about where he stands right now, and that self-awareness is part of what makes this comeback so compelling.
“For myself… I think I'm… not necessarily where I want to be, but, you know, a work in progress,” Embiid said recently. “I'm back to, I would say… All-Star level, and getting back to that All-NBA level and MVP level… Just gotta keep it going.”
That’s a measured take from a player who knows exactly what elite looks and feels like - because he was elite. And while he may not be there yet, the fact that we’re even having this conversation is a win in itself.
Let’s be clear: Embiid’s current production isn’t vintage 2023. He’s averaging just seven rebounds per game - a noticeable dip from his peak - and his shot-blocking has cooled off, hovering around just one per game. But considering the injury concerns that followed him into this season, this version of Embiid still brings plenty to the table.
He’s still a matchup nightmare. He still commands double teams.
And he still tilts the floor in ways few centers can. Even if he’s not the same physically overwhelming force he once was, his basketball IQ, touch, and footwork haven’t gone anywhere.
And for Sixers fans, that’s more than enough for now.
Sure, there are bigger-picture questions about Philadelphia’s playoff ceiling and long-term trajectory. But in this moment, the story is about resilience. It’s about a player who’s been through the wringer - physically and mentally - and is still finding ways to impact the game at a high level.
If Embiid can continue trending upward and inch closer to that All-NBA tier he’s eyeing, it would be nothing short of remarkable. But even if this is the new normal - a slightly scaled-back Embiid who stays healthy and still gives you All-Star level production - that’s a player any team would love to have anchoring their frontcourt.
The fact that we’re watching Joel Embiid play meaningful basketball again in January 2026 is something to appreciate. And if he keeps building on this foundation, the Sixers - and their fans - might just get to dream a little bigger again.