Caleb Martin Nears Return as Sixers Face Mavericks Amid Injury Struggles

CAMDEN, N.J. — Philadelphia 76ers forward Caleb Martin, sidelined since Jan. 10 with a groin and hip injury, is inching closer to a return as the team prepares to host the Dallas Mavericks on Tuesday. Martin, known for his resilience, has missed 12 consecutive games but remains optimistic about his recovery.

“I’m progressing well,” Martin said after Monday’s practice. “It’s been a little bit longer than anticipated, but it’s doing a lot better. I’ve been just trying to stay on my stuff and progressing each day. So it’s definitely getting better. Today was a better day, and I feel like I’m definitely heading toward the right direction for sure.”

Martin’s absence has been a blow to the Sixers, who have struggled with consistency this season. The 28-year-old forward, who has battled multiple injuries this year, including a shoulder issue earlier in the season, has been a key contributor on both ends of the floor. Despite his competitive nature, Martin acknowledged that playing through his current injury would have been counterproductive.

“I’ve typically played through a lot of stuff, and it’s just one of those things that I just couldn’t,” Martin said. “I’m glad I’ve been doing rehab and making progress these days, so hopefully, I’ll be making a return soon.”

Martin’s injury, described as a right hip sprain, has limited his mobility, making it difficult for him to contribute effectively. “When it comes to the lower half, and you can’t move, you become more of a liability,” he explained. “Even if I wanted to go out there, knowing I would have been a liability, it just wasn’t gonna happen.”

The Sixers upgraded Martin’s status on the NBA injury report ahead of Tuesday’s game, though his participation remains uncertain. If he doesn’t play, it will mark his 13th straight absence. His last appearance was in a Jan. 10 home game against the New Orleans Pelicans.

As the NBA trade deadline approaches on Thursday, Martin’s name has surfaced in trade rumors. However, the forward remains focused on his recovery and supporting his teammates. “I just try to control what I control,” Martin said. “All I can do is try to go out and play, and as of right now, I’m just focused on getting myself back onto the court.”

Coach Nick Nurse expressed optimism about Martin’s progress, noting that the forward has been actively participating in practice. The Sixers, currently navigating a challenging season, are hopeful that Martin’s return will provide a much-needed boost as they aim to climb the Eastern Conference standings.