Joel Embiid expected to return on March 3

Brandon Apter, Sports Talk Philly editor  

The Philadelphia 76ers just dealt Nerlens Noel to Dallas, and their primary starting center is set to miss the teams' next four games. Joel Embiid was a full participant in practice, and the Sixers are encouraged with his progress, but the medical staff doesn't believe he's game ready quite yet.

Update:
Embiid went through full practice. Medical staff encouraged by progress towards becoming game ready. Target for return 3/3 v NYK.

— Philadelphia 76ers (@Sixers) February 23, 2017

Embiid, 22, suffered a bone bruise in his left knee back on January 20 against Portland. He returned a few games later against Houston on January 27, but hasn't played since.

Joel is averaging 20.2 points, 7.8 rebounds and 2.5 blocks per game for the Sixers this season.