The Philadelphia 76ers head west for a Saturday night showdown with the Phoenix Suns, but the spotlight heading into tipoff is shining just as brightly on the injury report as it is on the court. Two franchise cornerstones - Devin Booker and Joel Embiid - are both listed as questionable, and their statuses could swing the balance of this matchup in a big way.
Booker’s Return? Still Up in the Air
Let’s start with Devin Booker, who’s fresh off earning his fifth All-Star nod. That recognition speaks volumes about his consistency and impact, but the Suns have been without their star guard since January 23 due to a right ankle sprain. Now, with his designation upgraded from “out” to “questionable,” there’s a glimmer of hope that Booker could make his return against Philly.
Booker’s been putting together another strong campaign, averaging 25.4 points per game on 45.6% shooting, along with 6.2 assists and 4.0 rebounds. His ability to create off the dribble, score at all three levels, and facilitate for others is central to what Phoenix does offensively.
And with the Suns heating up - winners of four of their last six - getting Booker back could give them the boost they need to keep climbing the Western Conference standings. At 31-21, they currently sit seventh in the West, but with how tight the playoff race is, every game - and every available star - matters.
Still, as of now, there’s no firm word on whether Booker will suit up. The ankle’s clearly made progress, but whether it’s ready for game action remains to be seen.
Embiid’s Status? Also a Question Mark
On the other side, the 76ers are dealing with their own superstar uncertainty. Joel Embiid, the reigning MVP, has been managing a right knee issue that’s been lingering for some time. He’s listed as questionable, and like Booker, his availability will likely come down to a game-time decision.
When Embiid’s on the floor, there’s no question about the level he brings. He’s been dominant in his limited action so far this month, averaging 29.5 points on a blistering 55.3% from the field, while also chipping in 6.0 boards, 5.0 assists, and contributing on the defensive end with a steal and a block per game. He was instrumental in the Sixers’ recent 128-113 win over the Clippers and posted a well-rounded 25-7-7 line with two blocks and a steal in a gritty 119-115 win over the Lakers.
Philadelphia had won four straight before dropping back-to-back games heading into Saturday. With Embiid questionable, the Sixers may need to lean more heavily on Tyrese Maxey and the rest of the supporting cast if their big man can’t go.
Other Injury Notes
The injury report for this game is longer than either team would like. For Phoenix, Grayson Allen is out with a right knee sprain, and Isaiah Livers remains sidelined with a left shoulder strain. Meanwhile, Jalen Green is questionable with a combination of a right hamstring strain, injury management concerns, and a left hip contusion.
Philadelphia, in addition to Embiid’s uncertain status, has Kelly Oubre Jr. continuing to recover from a left knee injury. Paul George is also listed as out due to a league suspension.
The Bottom Line
With two All-Stars potentially sidelined, Saturday’s game could look very different depending on who’s available. If Booker and Embiid both play, we’re in for a high-level duel between two teams with playoff aspirations and elite talent. If one or both sit, it becomes a test of depth and adaptability.
Either way, it’s a matchup worth watching - and one that could have ripple effects across both conferences as the playoff picture continues to take shape.