The Philadelphia 76ers are growing optimistic about their chances of making a notable run in the Eastern Conference, but they need to get healthier.
Ahead of Wednesday’s game against the Chicago Bulls (March 25), the Sixers announced the status of the star center, Joel Embiid.
According to the official injury report, the Sixers have upgraded Embiid to questionable. He has a 50-50 shot at making his return.
The success of the Sixers depends on the availability of Embiid. While they have proven at times this year that they can churn out wins while missing the big man, they are simply much better when he’s on the floor.
Unfortunately, that hasn’t been the case lately.
An oblique strain has sidelined Embiid for nearly one month. The last time he played was on February 26 against the Miami Heat.
During that matchup, Embiid shot 8-20 from the field, scoring 26 points in 31 minutes. He also came down with 11 rebounds and dished out four assists.
By missing Monday’s loss against the Oklahoma City Thunder, Embiid collected his 13th consecutive absence. He has played in just five games since the start of February.
Where The Sixers Stand Before Facing The Bulls
After the Sixers suffered a 123-103 loss against the Oklahoma City Thunder, the Sixers dropped to 39-33 on the year. They have won just five out of their last 10 games.
With Tuesday’s slate off, the Sixers are sitting seventh in the Eastern Conference. They trail the Atlanta Hawks by 1.0 game. Philadelphia holds a 0.5-game lead over the Orlando Magic.
Then, the Miami Heat are 1.0 games behind the Sixers.
The Eastern Conference playoff race has plenty of scenarios that could take place during the final few weeks of the season.
The 76ers are one of a few teams that could shake up the picture, especially with key names waiting for a return down the stretch.
With Embiid on the court, the Sixers are 21-12 this year. He’s a game-changer on both ends of the floor, and clearly makes the team a major threat when he’s available.
Without him, the Sixers are 18-21. Better than previous runs, but they are still under .500 without his presence on the court.
Beyond Embiid, the Sixers have been rolling without a few other key starters. Paul George has been suspended for the past 25 games. Tyrese Maxey is dealing with a hand injury, which has kept him off the floor since March 7.
Kelly Oubre Jr. is another injured Sixer who hasn’t seen the court since March 10.
George will make his return on Wednesday for the Bulls game. The others are still waiting for clearance from the medical staff.