High hopes for Joel Embiid's recovery, 76ers future

PHILADELPHIA (WPVI) -- Joel Embiid may not be practicing right now because of his slowly healing right foot but his big, bright smile is encouraging at Sixers mini-camp.

"He's in good spirits," said Jahlil Okafor.

"Even seeing him out here just shooting around and stuff, he looks great. Once he gets on the court, it's gonna be a little rough since it's been a while but I feel like he'll adjust just fine," said J.P Tokoto.

There's still no official update on Embiid's status.

However, Okafor envisions a bright future playing side by side with him.

"We're really close off the floor and what I've learned from previous teams is that helps you on the floor, playing together," said Okafor.

Playing with Embiid is not the only thing on Okafor's mind.

He says just walking around Center City, he can feel the passion from Sixers fans. He knows they're hungry to see another championship banner raised.

"The organization, the fans - they're all hungry for a special season, a winning program, a winning season, a championship so it's exciting. You see all the names up there and I would definitely love to be a part of that good company. I've got a long way to go," said Okafor.

That journey starts Monday in Okafor's Summer League debut in Utah.