Nick Nurse reveals his problem with Joel Embiid and why it is intriguing image

May 10, 2026; Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA; Philadelphia 76ers center Joel Embiid (21) looks on against the New York Knicks in the second quarter during game four of the second round of the 2026 NBA Playoffs at Xfinity Mobile Arena. Mandatory Credit: Kyle Ross-Imagn Images

Joel Embiid has one of the worst injury histories in the modern NBA. Despite that injury history, Embiid remains a top player on talent alone. When he is healthy, only a few players can match his ceiling.

Unfortunately for the Philadelphia 76ers and their fans, Embiid continues to struggle with injuries. This includes Thursday's game against the Toronto Raptors, when it looked like he suffered a bad knee injury, but he returned later in the game.

Nick Nurse speaks on an intriguing problem with Joel Embiid 

Embiid returning to the game was surprising because everyone thought that it did not look good. Considering that he is still one of the 76ers' best players, Embiid needs to be as healthy as possible when the Playoffs roll around.

However, it seems that Embiid is forcing head coach Nick Nurse's hand at times. While he wants Embiid out there playing, he also wants to maximize his health.

MORE: Joel Embiid admits he must be a better player to silence the concerns

That poses a bit of a unique problem for Nurse because Embiid is a star player who will need some rest. However, he himself is stubborn enough to want to keep playing.

"He was very, very motivated to play. It was hard to get him out for his scheduled rest tonight, which is a good problem sometimes," Nurse said after the game against the Raptors.

Nurse has to strike the right balance with Embiid if they want any chance of succeeding in the future.  It will be tough, but it is going to be necessary moving forward.

More NBA news: