For the second time in three postseasons, Joel Embiid is set to face the New York Knicks in a playoff series—and once again, the Philadelphia 76ers' superstar center is battling through injuries that could impact his performance.

Back in 2024, Embiid took on the Knicks in the first round while recovering from left knee surgery and dealing with Bell's palsy. Now, as he prepares for Game 1 of this second-round clash, he appears on the injury report as probable with a right hip contusion. The "often-injured big," as fans have come to know him, is no stranger to adversity—but that doesn't make it any less concerning.

The latest scare came in the final minutes of Saturday's Game 7 against the Boston Celtics. Co-star Tyrese Maxey fell backward onto Embiid's knee—the same one that underwent meniscus surgery in 2024. Embiid, clearly in pain, limped to the far corner on the next offensive possession, effectively taking himself out of the play. Yet, he stayed on the floor, defending Boston's Derrick White and closing out on Sam Hauser, who misfired on a three-pointer with under a minute left as the 76ers sealed the series.

"I feel great. I feel amazing. I was faking it," Embiid joked with a smirk after the game, having put up 34 points, 12 rebounds, six assists, and a block.

Now, Embiid's battered body is set to go head-to-head with Karl-Anthony Towns and Mitchell Robinson for much of this second-round series. Towns, coming off a historic first-round performance—becoming the first NBA player to record two postseason triple-doubles in under 30 minutes—has also stepped up as a more engaged defender. The Knicks are now consistently running their offense through him. Then there's Robinson, a relentless rebounder and rim protector who makes his presence felt every second he's on the floor.

How well Embiid can move on the hardwood will be key against this Knicks duo. But if history is any guide, the superstar big is known for delivering big performances, even when he's banged up. For fans and fantasy owners alike, it's a reminder that toughness and talent often go hand in hand—and that the right gear can make all the difference on game day.