7:00 PM : Joel Embiid is back in the Sixers’ lineup following positive test results, according to Keith Pompey of the Philly Inquirer. Additionally, James Harden is expected to rejoin the team and will be on the sideline tonight as the Sixers face the Trail Blazers, reports Shams Charania.
12:56 PM : The participation of Philadelphia 76ers’ center, Joel Embiid, in tonight’s game against the Portland Trail Blazers is uncertain, as he is marked as questionable due to a planned rest.
Also, James Harden remains sidelined as he continues his return to optimal condition for competition, reports Keith Pompey of the Philadelphia Inquirer.
#Sixers center Joel Embiid (rest) is questionable for tonight’s game against the Portland Trail Blazers. James Harden (return to competition conditioning) will remain sidelined.
— Keith Pompey (@PompeyOnSixers) October 29, 2023
The Sixers find themselves in the midst of a two-game series, following their victory in Toronto on Saturday.
As they approach tonights game, they are considering the possibility of Joel Embiid not taking the court due to scheduled rest.
In Friday nights’ matchup against Toronto, Joel Embiid delivered a remarkable performance with 34 points, 9 rebounds, 8 assists, and an impressive 66% field goal percentage.
If the reigning MVP decides to take a break, Paul Reed and Mo Bamba would likely have increased responsibilities on the court.
At this moment, Embiid is the only Sixer listed on the injury report (rest). With the season’s demanding start, including three games in four nights, giving the MVP a break appears to be a well-considered decision.
Regarding the Trail Blazers, both Anfernee Simons, who is sidelined 4-6 weeks due right thumb ligament tear, and Ish Wainwright, who is nursing a right calf strain, will not be available.
Please be aware that articles regarding player injuries(including rests) is subject to change before the game, so it’s advisable to check back for updates until the tip-off….
My big question is this. Did the Sixers advertise, in advance, that Joel Embiid would not be playing at the home opener, and that he is being “rested” but is not injured?? If not, then IMO every single paying fan should have the right to show up at the box office or go online, show their ticket, and ask for a full refund. Would he be “rested” if this was the last regular season game and they needed the win to win the division or secure home team advantage??? I highly doubt it. The guy is being paid over 47 million, and yet needs additional “nights off”???? Ask Kareem Abdul Jabbar how he feels about this…………….