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
GettyINGLEWOOD, CALIFORNIA – FEBRUARY 02: Kelly Oubre Jr. #9 of the Philadelphia 76ers reacts against the LA Clippers in the second half at Intuit Dome on February 02, 2026 in Inglewood, California. 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 Ronald Martinez/Getty Images)
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.
“Heâs 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.
âHeâs been around,” said the veteran wing, Quentin Grimes. “I feel like heâs looking good. Whenever heâs ready to come back, weâll be excited to have him back. Right now, heâs been around the team in good spirits and everything. So, itâs good to see.â
The Sixers Are Looking For A Lead
GettyPHILADELPHIA, PENNSYLVANIA – JUNE 20: Joel Embiid #21 of the Philadelphia 76ers reacts during the first quarter against the Atlanta Hawks during Game Seven of the Eastern Conference Semifinals at Wells Fargo Center on June 20, 2021 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)
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.
Like Heavy Sports’s content? Be sure to follow us.
This article was originally published on Heavy Sports
The post Joel Embiid Injury: 76ers Players Give Update Before Game 3 appeared first on Heavy Sports.