Joel Embiid Sidelined with Knee Swelling as 76ers Struggle to Find Their Footing
PHILADELPHIA — The Philadelphia 76ers dropped a bombshell on fans during Friday night’s game against the Brooklyn Nets, announcing that superstar center Joel Embiid is dealing with swelling in his left knee. Not only did Embiid miss the game against Brooklyn, but the team also confirmed he will sit out Sunday’s matchup against the LA Clippers.
Here’s the kicker: Embiid wasn’t even listed on the injury report Friday morning. This news came as a shock, especially since he had just played 35 minutes and dropped a stellar 35 points with 11 rebounds in a tough loss to the Memphis Grizzlies on Wednesday. By Friday afternoon, however, Embiid was added to the injury report under “left knee injury management.” According to the team, he was present for shootaround but didn’t participate.
76ers head coach Nick Nurse initially held out hope that Embiid might suit up. Nurse told reporters that the plan was for Embiid to warm up before the game, at which point a final decision would be made. But that plan never materialized. Embiid didn’t take the court for warmups and was officially ruled out just 30 minutes before tipoff.
What We Know So Far
The 76ers provided an update at the start of the third quarter, stating that Embiid is receiving treatment for the swelling in his knee. Fans eager for more clarity will have to wait, as the team promised further updates early next week. For now, it’s a waiting game for Philadelphia faithful, who are already reeling from the team’s dismal start to the season.
Adding to the team’s woes, Paul George will also be unavailable for Sunday’s game against his former team, the Clippers. George suffered a bone bruise in his left knee during Wednesday’s game in Memphis. While an MRI revealed no structural damage, the 76ers have ruled him out for at least two games—Friday against Brooklyn and Sunday against the Clippers.
Maxey Returns, but 76ers Still Struggling
There was at least one bright spot for the 76ers this week: the return of star guard Tyrese Maxey. Maxey had been sidelined for two weeks with a hamstring injury but made his comeback Wednesday against Memphis. He played 20 minutes in that game and was expected to see his minutes increase to the mid-20s on Friday night.
Unfortunately, Maxey’s return hasn’t been enough to turn the tide for Philadelphia. The 76ers entered Friday’s game with the worst record in the NBA at 2-12. This is a far cry from the lofty expectations placed on the team after signing George in free agency. So far, the trio of Embiid, George, and Maxey has shared the court for a grand total of six minutes—all during Wednesday’s loss to Memphis.
What’s Next for the 76ers?
It’s no secret that the 76ers were expected to be contenders in the Eastern Conference this season. With Embiid, the reigning MVP, leading the charge and the addition of George, many believed this team had the pieces to make a deep playoff run. Instead, they’ve stumbled out of the gate, and injuries have only compounded their struggles.
Here’s a quick recap of the 76ers’ current situation:
- Joel Embiid: Out with left knee swelling, status to be updated next week.
- Paul George: Sidelined with a bone bruise in his left knee, out for at least two games.
- Tyrese Maxey: Recently returned from a hamstring injury, still ramping up his minutes.
For a team that was supposed to be a powerhouse, the 76ers are now facing an uphill battle just to stay afloat. The lack of chemistry and continuity is glaring, and the clock is ticking for them to figure things out before it’s too late.
Fan Reactions and Concerns
Unsurprisingly, fans are frustrated. Social media has been buzzing with reactions to the team’s poor start and the latest injury news. Many are questioning whether the 76ers can salvage their season, while others are already looking ahead to next year. The pressure is mounting on Nick Nurse and the front office to find solutions—and fast.
For now, all eyes are on Embiid’s knee. The reigning MVP is the heart and soul of this team, and his health will be the key to any hopes of a turnaround. As the 76ers prepare to face the Clippers on Sunday, one thing is clear: the road ahead won’t be easy.
Originally Written by: Tim Bontemps
