Joel Embiid's 2024-25 season got off to a disastrous start off of the floor. What was supposed to be a season focused on health and making it to the playoffs in peak condition began with a preseason knee injury and an altercation with a local reporter that led to a three-game suspension.

Philadelphia 76ers star Joel Embiid reacts to his return to the floor as well as his back-to-back status against the Cleveland Cavaliers.

Joel Embiid has had a controversial start to the 2024-25 NBA season without playing a game. Here's what happened and why he's on the cusp of returning.