The Philadelphia 76ers have been heavily cautious in managing star center Joel Embiid’s health as they gear up for their upcoming matchup against the Dallas Mavericks on Saturday night. Tip-off is set for 7 p.m. ET.
Even as Embiid continues to be in and out of the rotation due to health concerns, there is a chance that the five-time All-NBA player can take part in the game against the Mavericks. Here is his current status for the contest.
Joel Embiid’s Status for 76ers-Mavericks Game
Injuries continue to limit Embiid’s presence on the court, as it comes at the cost of the 76ers’ ceiling. Embiid began his 10th season playing in six of the first nine games. However, he picked up a knee injury that sidelined him for nine consecutive games throughout November. He didn’t return to the hardwood until Nov. 30 against the Atlanta Hawks.
Embiid has improved with his availability in December, appearing in four out of seven games to begin the month. Despite this, he sat out of the 76ers’ latest matchup against the New York Knicks on Dec. 19 due to right knee management and an illness. Team reporter Adam Aaronson asked head coach Nick Nurse about the star’s health, and Nurse made his answer very clear on that subject.
“Joel had been questionable with the illness and then the right knee management tag was added when he was ruled out, so I guess first of all, is he not playing because of the knee?” Aaronson asked.
“He’s not playing because of both,” Nurse said. “This is the first time the right knee has been listed in, I think, a little over two weeks. Did something happen? Are there new symptoms?” Aaronson followed up.
“I don’t think there’s anything new, and I don’t think anything happened. It’s just all part of trying to manage the stuff going forward,” Nurse replied.
Philadelphia has performed decently in the 11 games Embiid has played in, going 6-5 when he’s on the court. He is averaging 20.5 points, 6.6 rebounds, 2.8 assists, and 1.3 blocks per game. He is shooting 42.1% from the field, including 22.6% from beyond the arc, and 81.8% from the free-throw line. It seems that the statuses that kept Embiid out against New York remain intact in the team’s injury report, per Aaronson. Embiid is doubtful to play in the game, while Paul George, Kelly Oubre Jr., and Trendon Watford are unavailable due to injury.
What Lies Ahead for Embiid and 76ers?
The 76ers have persevered against odds this season, in large part thanks to significant contributions from Tyrese Maxey and VJ Edgecombe, while Embiid figures out his injury management. Their ability to exceed expectations without their star big man has allowed them to have a firm place in the playoff picture.
Philadelphia has a 15-11 record on the season, sitting at fifth place in the Eastern Conference standings. They lead over the Orlando Magic and Miami Heat while trailing the Boston Celtics and Toronto Raptors.
Following their matchup against the Mavericks, the 76ers will prepare for their next home contest. They host the Brooklyn Nets in a division rivalry encounter on Dec. 23 at 7 p.m. ET.