Embiid returns from 9-game absence in 2OT loss to T-Wolves

Philadelphia 76ers center Joel Embiid returned to the starting lineup Saturday in a double-overtime loss to the Minnesota Timberwolves after missing the last nine games while in the NBA's health and safety protocols.

Embiid showed few signs of rust in the narrow defeat, posting 42 points, 14 rebounds, and two blocks while shooting 16-of-21 from the free-throw line over 45 minutes.

76ers wing Tobias Harris also started following a two-game absence with a hip injury. He finished with 17 points, nine rebounds, and four assists.

Philadelphia was first in the Eastern Conference at the time Embiid tested positive for COVID-19. The 76ers then went 2-7 without the All-Star big man and entered their matchup against the Timberwolves in ninth place.

Andre Drummond returned to backup center duties with Embiid available. The big man made one of the most pivotal plays of the game by converting a tip-in off of Tyrese Maxey's missed free throw to force a second overtime frame.

Saturday's loss dropped Philly's record to 10-10. Meanwhile, thanks in large part to D'Angelo Russell's tremendous 35-point, 8-assist, and 2-steal performance, Minnesota improved to an identical 10-10 with the victory.