The Sixers are "hopeful" Joel Embiid can return from his knee injury this season.

PHILADELPHIA (AP) - Philadelphia 76ers president Daryl Morey expressed optimism Friday that NBA star Joel Embiid will return from a knee injury in time for a postseason appearance.

"We're hopeful," Morey said before the 76ers hosted the Atlanta Hawks and three days after Embiid underwent surgery on his left knee. “From the time we first heard why he had the surgery, there was more positive feedback than negative. So hopefully we can build a better team this year. Of course it's not 100%. But now that Joel is playing at an MVP level, I hope he returns to his old self. And this is a year where we have a real opportunity.”

When asked if his approach would have been different given the news of Embiid's injury, Morey was clear.

"I think it would have made a big difference if Hope hadn't been with Joel," Morey said. "We are very confident, but of course we are not 100%. Unfortunately, it's probably a little less than 100%. But we thought it was the right thing to do. “There are many ways not to win. The title is hard to beat. Joel's inability to return to the level we expect is one of the reasons he won't win a title this year. … But you always want to be in the best team and that means taking risks in terms of injuries and that's where we are."

Embiid, who is averaging 35.3 points and 11.3 rebounds in 39 games, has missed the last five games since Golden State forward Jonathan Kuminga suffered a meniscus injury in a fall on his left leg and required a surgery. Initial reports from the 76ers said Embiid would be "re-evaluated" in four weeks. Embiid has experienced swelling in his left knee in Philadelphia's last two games.

Morey declined to describe Embiid's exact procedure, which would reveal the severity of the injury. Morey said he took the opportunity to replace Embiid and improve the team's center position over Paul Reed. He said he was surprised "big" wasn't traded before the trade deadline.