Now 31 and again attempting to work his way back to health, Philadelphia's superstar center is learning what he's still capable of.

ATLANTA -- The Philadelphia 76ers saw a breakthrough for star big man Joel Embiid in Sunday's 120-117 loss to the Atlanta Hawks. Normally, the big fella will have two days off before playing in his next contest, and he was listed as questionable against the Hawks, but Embiid was able to give it a go.

After his season-best outing against the Indiana Pacers on Friday, Joel Embiid explained why he's largely been taking a backseat to his teammates this year.

Will Joel Embiid or Paul George play tonight against the Nets? Here’s the latest injury report as the 76ers navigate lineup uncertainty.

Nurse entered the season with the hopes that Embiid would grow his two-man game with the likes of rookie VJ Edgecombe along with Quentin Grimes and Paul George. The Sixers will continue to put the ball in the hands of the other perimeter players and allow them to work with Embiid in an effort to grow that two-man game with other players.

Joel Embiid had a vintage performance Friday night. He’s just happy to be playing with a group he loves and to get a win.

It's 11:05 on Friday night and Joel Embiid is in front of his locker in the bowels of Xfinity Mobile Arena. He's the last Sixer in the locker roo

Embiid, who has played in only nine games since returning from left knee surgery, is listed as probable for the Pacers matchup. Maxey initially carried the same designation but has since been downgraded to questionable due to illness. Philadelphia could find itself in a unique predicament if the latter is ultimately ruled out.

VJ Edgecombe carried the Sixers in the first quarter and Joel Embiid carried them in the middle of the game before Embiid and Paul George teamed up for a stellar closing effort on Friday night.

“Big Blue,” “The Bombardier from Baton Rouge,” “Bombardier,” “Dixie Dandy” and “Slim.” I can’t think of a much cooler nickname for a scorer than Bombardier. Happy birthday, Bombardier!