Joel Embiid, Paul George continue to recover from injuries

As the Philadelphia 76ers begin training camp, star players Joel Embiid and Paul George are both sidelined with injuries, raising concerns about their availability for the start of the season.

Embiid, who was limited to just 19 games last season due to various injuries, underwent knee surgery in April and stated that there is a "plan in place" for his return, though he provided no specific timeline. He has a history of health issues, including a sprained foot and sinus fracture last season, and aims to "play consistently" despite never exceeding 68 games in a season.

George, a nine-time All-Star coming off a career-worst season, will miss training camp as he recovers from knee surgery but has not been ruled out for the season opener on October 22 against the Boston Celtics.

The 76ers, previously considered title contenders, now have 40-1 odds to win the NBA championship, according to BetMGM, with their prospects heavily dependent on the health and productivity of both Embiid and George. Team president Daryl Morey declined to set expectations for their returns, emphasizing the uncertainty surrounding the situation.