Joel Embiid Injury: 76ers Players Give Update Before Game 3

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Joel Embiid #21 of the Philadelphia 76ers looks on during the game against the New York Knicks in Game Two of the Eastern Conference First Round Playoffs at Madison Square Garden on April 22, 2024 in New York City.

Two games into the 2026 NBA Playoffs, the Philadelphia 76ers haven’t hit a point of desperation in the absence of Joel Embiid.

While a double-digit blowout in Game 1 had many calling for a Boston Celtics sweep, the Sixers stunned the city of Boston in Game 2, as a Tyrese Maxey, VJ Edgecombe masterclass helped the Sixers steal one on the road.

Game 3 takes place on Friday between the Sixers and the Celtics, and the 76ers upgraded Embiid on the injury report.

According to the official injury report, Embiid is listed as doubtful. While he’s unlikely to return two weeks after undergoing surgery for appendicitis, the Sixers are showing that he’s making clear positive progress.

76ers Players Discuss The State Of Joel Embiid

After the 76ers’ Game 2 victory on the road, Kelly Oubre Jr. caught up with reporters and commented on Embiid.

It’ll be the biggest lift that we could ask for right now,”Oubre said, regarding Embiid’s potential return.

“He’s such a talent, and he’s our guy, so, you know, praying for his recovery, and I hope everything is going well back at home. We’re gonna go home and check on him. Everybody’s gonna huddle around him and say a prayer so that he can come back, but, you know, I think he’s doing everything that he possibly can, so I think it’ll be the biggest lift that we could ask for.”

The 76ers held one practice session between Game 2 and 3. Embiid was on the court for the team’s light session on Thursday afternoon. 76ers head coach Nick Nurse stated that Embiid wants to play, and the team would clearly embrace his return, but the reality is that all parties have to be wise.

Patience is key for the 76ers in this situation.

“He’s been around,” said the veteran wing, Quentin Grimes. “I feel like he’s looking good. Whenever he’s ready to come back, we’ll be excited to have him back. Right now, he’s been around the team in good spirits and everything. So, it’s good to see.”

The Sixers Are Looking For A Lead

With or without Embiid, the Sixers are hoping to grab a lead at home in Game 3.

The matchup tips off at 7 PM ET.

If Embiid doesn’t get the nod to play on Friday night, the 76ers would then start looking at Sunday, April 26, for the potential return of the big man.