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[Saba Sports News] The Philadelphia 76ers’ rough start to the 2024-25 season just got worse.
Joel Embiid was a late scratch from Friday’s game against the Brooklyn Nets at Wells Fargo Center, despite not being listed on the injury report earlier in the day. Shortly before tipoff, the former MVP was ruled out due to swelling in his left knee.
Embiid has already missed 10 of the Sixers’ first 11 games this season due to ongoing knee issues. He logged a season-high 35 minutes in Wednesday’s 117-111 loss to the Memphis Grizzlies, with no immediate concerns reported after the game. However, his knee flared up before Friday’s matchup, sidelining him again.
The Sixers expect Embiid to miss Sunday’s game against the Los Angeles Clippers as he undergoes treatment. According to ESPN’s Tim Bontemps, the team plans to provide an update on his status early next week.
Embiid’s latest setback compounds Philadelphia’s struggles, as the team’s star trio of Embiid, Paul George, and Tyrese Maxey has played together just once this season. The lack of chemistry and continuity has contributed to the Sixers’ disappointing 3-12 start.
In his four appearances this season, Embiid has averaged 19.8 points and 7.5 rebounds while shooting a subpar 37.9% from the field. For now, the Sixers’ hopes of turning their season around hinge on Embiid’s ability to recover and stay on the court.