The Philadelphia 76ers are gearing up to wrap up their 2025 home slate with a matchup against the Brooklyn Nets on Tuesday night - and they’ll be doing it with some reinforcements, but also a few new question marks.
Paul George is set to return to the lineup after sitting out Saturday’s win over Dallas, giving the Sixers a much-needed boost on both ends of the floor. George’s ability to space the floor, defend multiple positions, and create offense in the halfcourt has been a stabilizing force for Philly all season. His presence alone changes the dynamics of how the Sixers operate, especially when paired with Joel Embiid and Tyrese Maxey.
Speaking of Embiid, he’s listed as probable heading into Tuesday’s game. That’s a good sign for Philly fans, especially after his recent bout with illness. Maxey also recently dealt with something similar, and now it seems the bug is making its way through the locker room.
Rookie guard VJ Edgecombe has been added to the injury report with an illness and is considered questionable. He joins Quentin Grimes and Dominick Barlow, who are also questionable due to illness. That trio provides depth and versatility, and their availability - or lack thereof - could impact how head coach Nick Nurse manages rotations against a Nets team that can throw a lot of different looks at you.
The Sixers will still be without Kelly Oubre Jr. and Trendon Watford, who continue to rehab their respective injuries. Oubre’s two-way play and Watford’s frontcourt versatility have been missed, particularly with the team juggling so many moving pieces due to illness and injury.
If Edgecombe, Grimes, and Barlow aren’t able to suit up, the Sixers will have to lean even more heavily on their core and supporting cast. That could mean expanded roles for guys like Jaden Springer or Mo Bamba - players who’ve shown flashes and now may be called upon to play meaningful minutes in a key divisional matchup.
Tip-off is set for 7 p.m. EST at Wells Fargo Center, and with the Sixers looking to close out the home portion of the calendar year strong, expect a playoff-like energy in the building.