Joel Embiid will join Stephen Curry on the Warriors’ bench
last month, Joel Embiid reminded everyone that one of the most influential stars in the NBA when he is in rhythm. After a rough early season that had people wondering if the former MVP was in a slump, he’s now giving fans legitimate hope for a potential Finals appearance. However, just because Embiid looks like his old self doesn’t mean Philly can ignore the reality of the situation. After playing in Monday’s 128-113 win over the Los Angeles Clippers, he will miss Tuesday’s away game against the Golden State Warriors, according to SI’s Austin Crell.
Embiid has made it clear he doesn’t expect to play back-to-back nights too often (or maybe at all), and the team will stick to the plan in the Bay Area. The 2023 All-NBA first-team selection and three second-team defensemen will sit out with a right knee injury. Dubs legend Stephen Curry will also be ruled out for the matchup, so maybe the 76ers can rise above Embiid’s absence.
Doc Paul George’s 25-game suspension is clearly a huge blow to the team, management won’t let this unforeseen setback affect how they handle their difference-making center. Embiid’s long-term status is integral to the franchise’s postseason ambitions. The 31-year-old may never hold down a big job again — he’s played in just 29 of 49 games this season — but he can still propel Philly forward if he’s active for the playoffs.
The Sixers (28-21) will accept a lower seed if it means they have Joel Embiid when it matters most. It sure seems fresh at this point. The two-time champion averaged 29.7 points, 8.4 rebounds and 4.6 assists while shooting 53.7 percent from the field and 36.2 percent from 3-point range in 14 games on January.
He will watch from the bench at Chase Center and try to come back strong to face the Los Angeles Lakers (29-19) on Thursday.
2026-02-04 00:20:00
