Going into a win-or-go-home matchup against the Boston Celtics, the Philadelphia 76ers have some good news to report: Joel Embiid seemingly dodged a notable setback.
It’s been a tough road for Embiid, who has dealt with several setbacks throughout the year. While he returned to the court for Game 4 against the Celtics, the star center once again is battling through setbacks just to play in the postseason.
During the Sixers’ Game 5 win on the road in Boston, Embiid bumped knees with another player deep into the second half. He went back to the locker room, but the setback wasn’t severe enough to keep him out for long.
Moments later, Embiid was back on the court. He was a massive difference-maker for the Sixers, who ended up completing a comeback with a stunning Game 5 win.
Philadelphia 76ers’ Injury Report Reveals Significant Joel Embiid Update
At this point of the playoffs, the Sixers have removed Kelly Oubre from the injury report. While Joel Embiid and Tyrese Maxey (available) remain listed, they are both on pace to play in Thursday night’s Game 6 battle.
Embiid’s injury reason on the report was something key to pay attention to. While he was expected to be added due to appendectomy surgery recovery, any designation for a knee issue would’ve been a concern.
Fortunately, the Sixers didn’t note anything about Embiid’s knee. Nick Nurse addressed that concern on Wednesday at the practice facility.
via Kyle Neubeck, PHLY: Just spoke with Nick Nurse at the Sixers’ facility, he told reporters that after the knee scare last night, what he heard was that Joel Embiid came out of the game fine and he has not heard anything to the contrary as of this afternoon.
Joel Embiid is probable for the Game 6 action at home. Barring any unexpected setbacks, he is set to suit up for his third-straight playoff game this postseason.
In the two games Embiid played, the Sixers are 1-1. The veteran center averaged 29.5 points, 7.0 rebounds, 7.0 assists, and 1.0 blocks.
If the 76ers can pull off a win on Thursday night, they’ll force Game 7 in Boston on Saturday, May 2. The Game 6 battle is set for an 8 PM ET tip.