Embiid returns in Game 2 loss vs. Celtics

Philadelphia 76ers center and newly crowned MVP Joel Embiid returned for Game 2 against the Boston Celtics on Wednesday after missing the last two contests.

Embiid finished with 15 points and five blocks in 26 minutes as the 76ers lost 121-87.

The 29-year-old star hadn't played since April 20 - Game 3 against the Brooklyn Nets - when he tweaked his right knee following an awkward fall while contesting a layup.

Embiid averaged 20 points, 11.3 rebounds, four assists, and 2.3 blocks in three playoff games against the Nets. Philadelphia went on to sweep the series.

The 76ers surprised the Celtics without Embiid, winning 119-115 in Boston to open the series. James Harden led the way with 45 points, tying a career high for playoff scoring. Harden nailed a go-ahead 3-pointer in the final seconds to clinch the victory.

Embiid led the league in scoring during the regular season at 33.1 points per game. In his most recent outing against Boston on April 4, the big man racked up 52 points and 13 rebounds in a 103-101 victory.