The NBA is expected to open an investigation later this week into 76ers center Joel EmbiidPlayer participation, a league source confirmed on Wednesday.

The 2023 Most Valuable Player did not participate in games or scrimmages during practices this preseason as he prepared to play this season with his surgically repaired left knee. On Tuesday, the Sixers announced that Embiid miss this week’s matches for what the team described as dealing with left knee injuries.

“Look, I have no idea about this,” coach Nick Nurse said of the possible investigation. “No one from our organization has said anything to me about this. So as far as the investigation goes, I don’t really know.

The Sixers open the season Wednesday night against the Milwaukee Bucks at the Wells Fargo Center. Next, they will play road games against the Toronto Raptors (Friday) and Indiana Pacers (Sunday).

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Sources said the league often investigates when one of its star players skips a nationally televised game. The Sixers’ opening game against the Bucks will be televised by ESPN.

The team said Embiid is responding well to his individual plan and is expected to step up his return-to-play activities this week, including participating in scrimmages.

The league’s player participation policy was implemented last season in an effort to improve competitiveness, fan interest and integrity of the game.

Under this policy, teams must have a valid reason to bench a healthy star player. They’re also not allowed to let multiple star players sit out at the same time. Stars must also be available for nationally televised and in-season tournaments.

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Sixers Star Paul Georges (left knee bone bruise) will also miss Wednesday’s game.

ESPN was the first to report the news.