Joel Embiid lost against the Celtics with a knee injury

It was major concerns about Joel Embiid’s overall knee health entering the 2025-26 season, i Philadelphia 76ers were careful with your minutes through the first three weeks of the new season. Embiid did not play more than 26 minutes in a game and will not play in any games.

Now, after an extended rest after not playing against the Detroit Pistons on Sunday, Embiid has been ruled out for Tuesday night’s game against the Boston Celtics with what the team labeling as “right knee pain” on the injury report.

However, Embiid’s injury came with additional team language that could hint at the former league MVP missing extended time.

With Embiid ruled out for Tuesday night’s game against Boston, the 76ers also said the star big man will be assessed by doctors due to his persistent right knee pain, according to HoopsHipe’s Michael Scott. At this time, the Sixers have not provided any additional details on Embiid’s status going into last game against the Celtics.

Throughout his career, Embiid’s left knee has been the biggest concern, as he underwent arthroscopic surgery in April 2025. Now, Embiid is dealing with issues with his right knee, signaling that now something else could be wrong.

He was not listed on the injury report entered Tuesday and was expected to play against the Celtics before the team filed this update. Now, Embiid’s status for the 76ers’ next game on Friday will be in question as he consults with doctors about his right knee.

Embiid last played on Saturday against the Toronto Raptors, a game the Sixers won 130-120, and Embiid scored 29 points in 26 minutes.

In the absence of Embiid on Tuesday night, Tyrese McKay will continue to do the heavy lifting for the 76ers. Maxey has averaged 41.1 minutes per game in the league this season, leading to concerns that head coach Nick Nurse is wearing out the young guard too early in the season.

McKay, on the other hand, didn’t look tired on the court, as he averaged 33.2 points and 8.2 assists per game while shooting 47.0 percent from the floor as the 76ers’ primary playmaker and scorer.

The 76ers are currently 6-4 entering their home game against the Celtics on Tuesday night. A win would put them in a multiple-team tie for third-best in the Eastern Conference.

Win or lose against the Celtics, all eyes will now be on the health of Embiid’s knee, as his absence hinges heavily on the Sixers’ ability to find success during the 2025-26 season.