Obviously, just the overall vibe was pretty poor from the start,” a spent-looking Nurse said following the 142-110 loss to the Chicago Bulls at the Wells Fargo Center.

Embiid played just 39 games last season due to a torn meniscus in his left knee. The 76ers announced in early February of that season that he had undergone surgery. Embiid came back in early April, was part of the 76ers’ playoff run and then won a gold medal with the U.S. Olympic team last summer.

Coach Nick Nurse shares his message to the Philadelphia 76ers following a blowout loss to the Chicago Bulls at home.

We asked Sixers sources to comment on what doctors were telling us about the most troublesome left knee in Philly. The sources and our doctors agreed: Embiid should play on unless there's new damage.

Even Stephen A. Smith would understand if Nick Nurse needed to relieve stress amid this turbulent 76ers season.