Joel Embiid will not play for the Philadelphia 76ers as they face the Miami Heat on Sunday, continuing his recovery from a right knee injury. This marks the sixth consecutive game he has missed due to the ongoing issue, which has shifted from initial soreness to a more serious injury management designation. The team’s injury report released on Saturday evening confirms his absence.
Embiid has not participated in a game since November 8, 2023. He reported knee discomfort on November 11, which led to his current status. While he took part in a limited practice session that resembled a pregame shootaround, team doctors advised that he is still experiencing soreness. Despite this, Nick Nurse, head coach of the Sixers, remains optimistic about Embiid’s recovery. “He wants to play, he’s being very diligent, he’s doing a lot to get back on the floor, and I think it’ll be very soon,” Nurse stated.
Alongside Embiid, Kelly Oubre Jr. will also be unavailable for the game due to a left knee sprain he sustained last week. Oubre is expected to be out for at least two weeks as he recovers from the injury.
Another notable absence is Adem Bona, who has been sidelined for three games due to a right ankle sprain. The Sixers announced that Bona will miss an additional two games before undergoing a reevaluation of his condition.
Rookie VJ Edgecombe is listed as questionable for the matchup against Miami due to tightness in his left calf. The team will provide updates on his status leading up to the game.
As the Sixers prepare for this crucial matchup, their roster challenges raise concerns about their performance against the Heat. The team hopes for a swift return of their star players as they aim to maintain competitiveness in the league.
