With one final game left before the All-Star break, the Philadelphia 76ers are set to host the New York Knicks on Wednesday night-and all eyes are on Joel Embiid’s status.
The reigning MVP is officially listed as questionable due to right knee injury management, a designation that’s become all too familiar for Sixers fans this season. Embiid has been in and out of the lineup as the team carefully navigates his chronic knee issues, prioritizing long-term health over short-term gains. But when he has been on the floor lately, he’s looked closer to peak form-reminding everyone just how much of a force he can be when healthy.
The timing of this game adds an extra layer of intrigue. With the All-Star break looming, Wednesday's matchup offers a natural rest window after the final buzzer.
That could factor into the Sixers’ decision-making-either as a reason to push Embiid through one more game or to give him extra time to recover. Either way, his availability could swing the momentum in a matchup that’s already loaded with implications.
Philly has had the upper hand against New York so far this season, winning both meetings at Madison Square Garden. Rookie VJ Edgecombe has shown a particular knack for raising his game against the Knicks, delivering some of his most impactful performances when facing the orange and blue. If Embiid can’t go, the Sixers will likely need another strong showing from their young guard-and perhaps a few others-to keep their streak alive.
The Knicks, meanwhile, are coming off a tough home loss to the Indiana Pacers on Tuesday night and are on the second night of a back-to-back. As of now, they haven’t submitted their injury report, but fatigue could be a factor, especially against a Sixers team that’s had more rest.
For New York, Quentin Grimes and Dominick Barlow are both listed as questionable due to illness, while Paul George remains out as he continues to serve his 25-game suspension.
Tip-off is set for 7:30 p.m. ET in Philadelphia, and whether Embiid plays or not, this game carries weight.
It’s a chance for the Sixers to head into the break on a high note-or for the Knicks to steal a road win and reset after a tough loss. Either way, it’s the kind of pre-break showdown that could linger in the minds of both teams when the season resumes.