Joel Embiid was questionable heading into yesterday’s game one against the Atlanta Hawks. As we all know, Embiid suffered a slight tear in his meniscus in game four of the Washington Wizards series. Embiid took the floor as a bell ringer, alongside Triple H, it what looked like a scene straight out of a WWE event to get things rolling at the Wells Fargo Center yesterday afternoon.

From there, Embiid played 38 minutes and scored a playoff career high 39 points, adding nine rebounds and three blocked shots to the stat card. The Sixers however, couldn’t overcome a disappointing first half and lost the game 128-124.

Even with all of the uncertainty surrounding Embiid’s injury, the MVP candidate still dominated and didn’t let a sold out crowd at the Wells Fargo Center know that he was dealing with any discomfort or pain. After the game, we finally got to hear from Embiid, who acknowledged that his health isn’t entirely within his control. The plan is to ice it, undergo some additional treatment, and keep it elevated. The only option according to Embiid, is to manage the pain and swelling.

Doc Rivers commented after the game saying that he checked on Embiid “maybe four or five times” throughout the game on how his knee was holding up, but Embiid would reply simply with “I feel great.” Embiid did look great yesterday, the real test will be tomorrow night, coming off just one day of rest. I’m no doctor but 38 minutes of fast-paced basketball is most likely not medically advisable.

As for Embiid, just like he stated at the start of the season, his goal is simple: Bring a championship to the City of Philadelphia. He’s not going to show you that he’s in pain on the court. When he’s playing, that’s the last thing on his mind. All he can control is what he can personally do to take care of his body. Today and tomorrow will be interesting to see how his knee recovers after a busy game one. Outside of that, according to Embiid, “whatever happens, happens.”

Listen to The Misery Report

Mandatory Credit: USA TODAY