Joel Embiid is set to miss his fifth consecutive game for the Sixers, as the team has ruled him out for their matchup against the Minnesota Timberwolves. This comes after Embiid was sidelined with what the team initially described as right knee injury management. However, a new concern has emerged with right shin soreness, which has been troubling him over the past week.
During the All-Star break, Embiid was involved in a right knee injury management program, but the shin issue surfaced, prompting daily treatment and ongoing on-court work. The Sixers' spokesman mentioned that Embiid would be reevaluated ahead of the team’s back-to-back games this weekend.
Head coach Nick Nurse addressed Embiid’s condition, indicating that if it were a playoff scenario, Embiid might have played. Nurse noted that the shin soreness seems to be a bigger issue than the knee right now, although both have been listed in recent reports.
Nurse explained, "The doctors advised against playing him tonight. We’re taking it day by day, seeing how he progresses. I’m optimistic it won’t be a long-term issue, but we’ll know more after further evaluations."
The backdrop to this situation includes Embiid's comments over the summer, suggesting he would no longer push through injuries. His strong performance in January had fans hopeful he was back in top form, but this recent setback has raised concerns about his long-term health.
Without Embiid, the Sixers have faced significant challenges, suffering multiple blowout losses, including a tough defeat to the 16-42 Pelicans. The team’s struggles have been evident, with a lack of late-game heroics and a concerning trend of second-half collapses.
Veteran Kelly Oubre acknowledged the team's struggles, stating, "I think we’re a little too entitled right now. Teams aren’t going to roll over and let us win any of those games."
Adding to the Sixers' woes is the absence of Paul George, who is suspended until late March due to a league policy violation. VJ Edgecombe’s shooting slump continues, and Tyrese Maxey’s three-point struggles have persisted through February.
In more unfortunate news, rookie Johni Broome is out indefinitely following a meniscus tear, sustained during a G-League game. Despite impressive performances in the G-League, Broome’s NBA minutes have been limited, and this injury is a significant setback as he works to establish himself in the league.
The Sixers are in dire need of a turnaround or a spark of good news. With Embiid sidelined and the team struggling, fans are left hoping for a swift recovery for their star player and a change in fortunes.