Nerlens Noel headed back to the D-League to continue his left knee rehab.
The Sixers assigned Noel to their Development League affiliate, the Delaware 87ers, on Friday to practice with the team. Noel also practiced with the Sevens on Wednesday before his first practice with the Sixers on Thursday. He was recalled to the Sixers five hours later.
This season the Sixers have been utilizing their D-League affiliation as a resource during injury recoveries. Jerryd Bayless (wrist) practiced twice with the team ahead of his season debut. Bayless, however, has dealt with more wrist soreness and is out for Friday's game vs. Orlando. He is questionable for Saturday's game against the Celtics.
Noel underwent elective arthroscopic knee surgery in October. On Thursday he participated in live work and scripting with the Sixers. After practice, he maintained his stance on the Sixers crowded frontcourt.
“I don't think the roster's changed,” Noel said Thursday. “So, I don't think the roster's changed.”
