Playing the second night of a back-to-back set is always a long shot for Philadelphia 76ers center Joel Embiid.
Considering his concerning injury history, especially in recent seasons, the Sixers have been extremely cautious with Embiid’s playing time and availability.
Embiid suggested early on last season that playing both games in back-to-backs probably won’t happen for the remainder of his career. He eventually walked that statement back, but nothing has changed since. Embiid typically splits the set.
On Friday night, the Sixers hosted the Minnesota Timberwolves. Embiid returned to the court after missing Wednesday’s action against the Washington Wizards due to an illness.
GettyPHILADELPHIA, PENNSYLVANIA – DECEMBER 20: Joel Embiid #21 of the Philadelphia 76ers reacts during the first quarter against the Minnesota Timberwolves at the Wells Fargo Center on December 20, 2023 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 Tim Nwachukwu/Getty Images)
Embiid checked in for 34 minutes. He shot 6-17 from the field to score 19 points. Along with his scoring, the big man came down with 13 rebounds and teased a triple-double with seven assists. He finished the game as a plus-15 in the Sixersâ 115-103 victory over Minnesota.
After the game, Embiid left the door open to potentially play against the Detroit Pistons on Saturday night.
âThereâs a chance,â he told reporters. âI donât know. I guess these guys decide to let me play or not. So, whatever they tell me, I guess Iâve got to follow.â
The Sixers ruled Embiid out for Saturday’s action.
What Is The Reason For Embiid’s Absence?
GettyMILWAUKEE, WISCONSIN – FEBRUARY 09: Joel Embiid #21 of the Philadelphia 76ers walks backcourt during a game against the Milwaukee Bucks at Fiserv Forum on February 09, 2025 in Milwaukee, Wisconsin.
According to the official NBA injury report, Embiid has two reasons for being ruled out.
- Right oblique injury
- Illness
The star center has had his struggles with setbacks throughout the year, but heâs been dominant in the 37 games he has appeared in. Seeing the court for 31.4 minutes per game, Embiid is posting averages of 26.7 points, 7.6 rebounds, and 4.0 assists.
Fortunately, Embiid is relatively healthy at this stage of the season. Keeping him as healthy as possible ahead of a potential playoff run has been the priority for the 76ers this season.
Heading into the 7 PM ET tip against Detroit, the Sixers have a 43-34 record. Theyâve won two straight games and are 7-3 over the past 10 games.
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