Embiid missed the first nine games of the season. He was dealing with what the team called "left knee management" and then received a three-game suspension for an altercation with a columnist in the 76ers locker room. But after Tuesday's 111-99 loss to the Knicks, Embiid opened the door to playing on Wednesday against the 12-0 Cavs.

Midway through the fourth quarter, with the Knicks leading 89-77, Paul George had possession of the ball and appeared to be gearing up to score. Embiid tried to set a screen for his new teammate, but instead of stopping the Knicks defenders, it was George whom he prevented from doing anything after they crashed to each other.

Joel Embiid made his return to the court as the 76ers squared off with the Knicks in their first NBA Cup game.