Joel Embiid returned from an eight-game absence on Sunday by scoring 33 points with 12 rebounds in a 17-point win over the Indiana Pacers.
Related: Joel Embiid: 'I'm back'
One of the more fascinating comments from Embiid after the victory was in regards to the communication he's had with the Sixers this season, specially in regards to his health.
During the Sam Hinkie and, more recently, Bryan Colangelo tenures, the 76ers were notorious for struggling with communication, especially with their fans.
Apparently, as recently as last year, Embiid's communication in with the medical staff wasn't where he wanted it to be. And while specific details of what Embiid meant aren't clear, it's obvious he's much happier today.
"Oh yeah, it's way better," Embiid said. "This year it's all about working together. Last it kind of felt like I was stuck where I didn't want to be on minute restrictions or I wanted to play games and I was just forced not to play I guess. This year it's all about working together."
And it's not just the medical staff that's stepping up their communication game.
"The owners, the front office, they've been doing a great job of just communicating," Embiid said. "(General Manager) Elton (Brand) has been amazing, so it's all about communication."
Wait, he specifically highlighted General Manager Elton Brand?
"Elton has been amazing," Embiid reiterated. "He's been doing a great job. That's, I guess, fresh air."
Did Embiid take a dig at Colangelo?
We might never know, and right now it's pure speculation to think he was talking about Colangelo in terms of past issues.
Either way, Embiid is happy with the system in place. He's finally back on the court, and if Sunday is any indication of what's to come, the Sixers should make noise in the postseason.
"They understand me," Embiid said of the Sixers organization. "They understand that I got to play, that I want to play, and if I tell them that I'm good, I want to play, they're going to let me play. Then again, usually I don't go up to them, but I did go up to them an told them that my knee, I might need a couple games off, and we just got on it and worked together."
