Sixers’ Joel Embiid to Miss Sixth Straight Game Amid Injury Woes

PHILADELPHIA, Pa. — The Philadelphia 76ers will be without star center Joel Embiid for the sixth consecutive game as they face the New York Knicks on Wednesday. Embiid continues to recover from a left foot sprain sustained during a Christmas Day matchup, leaving the team shorthanded in a critical stretch of the season.

The Sixers’ injury report remains crowded, with key players Tyrese Maxey and Paul George also listed as questionable. Maxey is dealing with a left hand sprain, while George is nursing right ankle soreness. Both players missed Tuesday’s game against the Oklahoma City Thunder, further depleting Philadelphia’s roster.

Head coach Nick Nurse expressed cautious optimism about Embiid’s recovery, stating, “Hopefully tomorrow is a good day and he’s ready to go.” However, the team has yet to provide a definitive timeline for his return, maintaining that the injury is not severe.

Philadelphia’s bench depth is also compromised. Andre Drummond (toe sprain) and Kyle Lowry (right hip sprain) remain sidelined, marking their sixth consecutive absences. The Sixers’ struggles are compounded by the fact that eight players were unavailable for Tuesday’s game, forcing the team to field a makeshift lineup.

On the Knicks’ side, Jalen Brunson is listed as probable with right hand soreness, while Karl-Anthony Towns is questionable due to a right thumb sprain. New York’s starting five has logged significant minutes together this season, presenting a formidable challenge for the injury-riddled Sixers.

The Sixers’ decision to rest key players in Tuesday’s game against the Thunder has drawn criticism from fans, many of whom had already purchased tickets. The team’s approach to managing injuries and player availability continues to be a point of contention as they navigate a grueling schedule.