The Sixers are gearing up for a Friday night rematch with the Cavaliers, and the latest injury report brings mostly encouraging news for Philly fans.
Joel Embiid is listed as probable with left knee injury management, and that’s a big deal. Embiid has played in eight of the team’s last nine games, marking his most sustained stretch of availability in more than two years.
That’s not just good news-it’s a major storyline for a franchise that has often had to navigate around his health. His lone absence in 2026 came during the front end of a back-to-back in Toronto, a game the Sixers dropped.
But true to form, Embiid returned the next night and helped lead a bounce-back win over the Raptors.
Paul George, also listed as probable with left knee injury management, is in a similar boat. He missed that same Toronto opener due to soreness but has suited up for every game since.
For a team still building chemistry with its new core, keeping both stars on the floor consistently is key. Their recent availability is a promising sign as the Sixers look to solidify their standing in the East.
As for Dominick Barlow, he’s questionable with a back contusion after exiting Wednesday’s game against Cleveland in visible discomfort. But there’s reason for optimism.
Barlow was spotted getting some light work in with a player development coach during Thursday’s practice. He wasn’t in uniform and didn’t participate in live drills, but the fact that he was moving around and getting shots up is a positive step.
Head coach Nick Nurse added some clarity post-practice, noting that the team initially planned to get imaging on Barlow’s back. But those plans were scrapped when the 22-year-old woke up feeling better. It’s a relief for the Sixers, who have seen Barlow flash real potential on his two-way deal.
“Sounded like he was going to be okay,” Nurse said.
So heading into Friday, the Sixers appear to be in relatively good shape. Embiid and George trending toward playing is huge, and Barlow avoiding a more serious issue is a win in itself. With Cleveland coming back into town, the Sixers will be looking to build on their recent momentum-and they just might have their full rotation ready to go.