Joel Embiid is out indefinitely with a concussion and orbital bone fracture

Joel Embiid has been injury-free all season long, but that changed after he suffered a facial contusion against the Knicks on Wednesday night. He was later diagnosed with a concussion, and after undergoing a CT scan, an orbital fracture was revealed on his left eye.

Embiid will undergo surgery and is out indefinitely.

ESPN’s Zach Lowe says Embiid could return to action within two-to-four weeks depending on the outcome of his surgery. That would put the 76ers at risk of losing their first-round playoff series, depending on who they play.

Embiid ran his face right into Markelle Fultz’s shoulder and immediately left the game holding his head. He then wobbled his way through the hallway to the locker room. He will undoubtedly be tested for concussion-like symptoms and could enter the NBA’s concussion protocol if those symptoms arise and persist.

Embiid is averaging 23 points, 11 rebounds, 3.2 assists, and 1.8 blocks per game for a 76ers team in arm’s reach of the Cleveland Cavaliers for the No. 3 seed in the Eastern Conference. Philadelphia is 3-8 this season in games Embiid does not play in. His injury is a huge blow to a Philly team that has thrived with both him and Ben Simmons healthy all season long.