On Friday, April 24, the Philadelphia 76ers are slated to host the Boston Celtics for the first time during the first round of the 2026 NBA Playoffs. Joel Embiid is once again on pace to watch from the side.
When Thursday’s practice session concluded for the Sixers, they did land positive news on the Embiid front. The star center was a limited participant in a light session, according to the head coach Nick Nurse.
Hours later, the 76ers slightly upgraded Embiid on the injury report. He is currently listed as doubtful to play in Friday’s Game 3. While that’s typically a sign a player has a very low chance of playing, Embiid’s injury report designations have not been crystal-clear indicators of his status this season.
GettyPHILADELPHIA, PENNSYLVANIA – MARCH 25: Joel Embiid #21 of the Philadelphia 76ers warms up prior to the game against the Chicago Bulls at Xfinity Mobile Arena on March 25, 2026 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Mitchell Leff/Getty Images)
But based on one team insider’s viewpoint, Embiid making a return as early as Game 3 would be a shocking scenario at this point.
“I would still be surprised if he played Game 3, I think Game 4 is a slightly more realistic possibility. And Game 5 is probably when we actually start getting into the realistic best-case scenarios,” PHLY’s Derek Bodner said on Thursday.
“I think there is a bit of gamesmanship … I think from Nick Nurse’s perspective, if Boston is preparing for the chance he might play, that might distract them a little bit. … I would be surprised if he played [Game 3].”
The Word On Embiid From The 76ers
GettyPHILADELPHIA, PENNSYLVANIA – JANUARY 22: Joel Embiid #21 of the Philadelphia 76ers looks on during a game against the Houston Rockets at Xfinity Mobile Arena on January 22, 2026 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Emilee Chinn/Getty Images)
“We’re, obviously, really hopeful, and I think he’s really hopeful,” Nick Nurse told reporters on Thursday. “He wants to play, and we want him to play. I don’t know how close we are to that at this point, but I think there’s some progress being made. Let’s hope it keeps that way. Keeps going that way.”
Thursday marked two weeks since Embiid had surgery after an appendicitis diagnosis. The Sixers didn’t reveal an official timeline, but most outside doctors suggested that a two-to-four-week timeline was realistic. It was often made clear that two weeks would be extremely optimistic. That’s where they are at.
Based on the injury report, Embiid has a very small chance of making his playoff debut on Friday night. His next opportunity would come on Sunday, April 26, when the 76ers host the Celtics for Game 4. If not then, Game 5 will take place on Tuesday, April 28, in Boston.