Trainer explains Embiid’s battle through injuries
Philadelphia 76ers superstar Joel Embiid’s long recovery from recurring knee problems involved far more sacrifice than many realized, according to longtime skills trainer Drew Hanlen.
The 2023 MVP has played only around 50 games since the start of last season after undergoing left knee meniscus surgery in January 2024. Despite those setbacks, Embiid remained a key contributor during Team USA’s Olympic gold medal run, pushing through visible physical limitations.
Hanlen said Embiid’s impact in the Olympic semifinal against Serbia underscored his importance even while managing pain.
Drew Hanlen: “They don’t win that gold medal without him in that Serbia game.”
Recovery forced complete pause in skill development
Following the Olympics, Embiid made a difficult decision to prioritize health over basketball work — something Hanlen described as highly unusual for a player known for his obsession with improvement.
According to the trainer, the pair went months without conducting a single skill workout as Embiid focused strictly on rehabilitation and knee management.
That lack of court work contributed to early-season struggles, with Embiid playing under restrictions while attempting to regain rhythm during live games.
Trainer Drew Hanlen on Joel Embiid
“People will look at him and be like ‘he’s out of shape, he’s lazy.’ You don’t go from picking up a basketball the first time at 16 to being arguably the most skilled big guy of all time, in a decade, if you don’t work hard.”
(@KevinOConnor) pic.twitter.com/FaXohHrvtv
— Erin Grugan (@eringrugan) February 18, 2026
Return to rhythm sparked turnaround
Hanlen revealed that a rare midseason workout helped restore Embiid’s confidence after the center voiced concerns about his normally reliable shooting touch.
The intense session, described as a throwback to Embiid’s earlier development years, appeared to reignite his offensive consistency.
Since that point, Embiid has returned to elite scoring production, including a 39-point performance that marked a turning point in his form.
Drew Hanlen on Joel Embiid’s mindset this season (credit @KevinOConnor)
“He’s bought into something this year he’s never done in the past. In the past, if he was 50%, he was still playing.”
“This year, he’s taken more of the approach of ‘if I’m not healthy, I’m not playing.'” pic.twitter.com/3vLfn6S48l
— Erin Grugan (@eringrugan) February 18, 2026
Increased importance amid roster adversity
With Philadelphia navigating roster instability and suspension-related absences, Embiid’s availability remains central to the team’s playoff push.
While durability concerns persist, Hanlen’s comments suggest the All-NBA center is gradually rediscovering his peak form — a development that could significantly influence the 76ers’ trajectory in the second half of the season.
