Embiid hopes to return next week

Philadelphia 76ers star Joel Embiid is nearing a return.

The All-Star center practiced Friday for the first time since undergoing surgery on Jan. 10 to repair a torn ligament in his left ring finger and hopes to be back in action next week, according to ESPN's Tim Bontemps.

Embiid will be re-evaluated Monday and could return as early as Tuesday against the Golden State Warriors.

"Just trying to get back into it and make the progress that's necessary," Embiid said Friday, according to Bontemps. "But I feel good. ... I think my finger feels good."

Embiid suffered the injury Jan. 6 against the Oklahoma City Thunder. He left the game briefly before returning for the remainder of the contest. However, the big man admitted postgame that he battled through significant pain.

The Cameroonian was initially given a one-to-two week timetable. Philadelphia has remained afloat during Embiid's absence, posting a 5-3 record.

Embiid is averaging 23.4 points, 12.3 boards, 3.3 assists, and 1.4 blocks across 31 appearances this season.