With the Milwaukee Bucks eliminated, it presents a unique opportunity for the Philadelphia 76ers to outlast the competition and finally make a run to the NBA Finals. But first, they’ll have to get past the red-hot Boston Celtics, who have had their number all season long.
With Game 1 set to begin on Monday, the Sixers were hoping to make a statement and set the tone early in the series. Unfortunately for them, they’ll have to do it without the help of their MVP, Joel Embiid, who is likely to miss the first two games after suffering a knee injury. According to Jason Dumas, it would be a ‘pleasant surprise’ if Embiid played before returning home for Game 3.
“Joel Embiid is experiencing a lot of pain in that right knee. His LCL sprain is typically a 4-6 week recovery. I’m told it would be a pleasant surprise if he were able to play in either of the first two games in Boston.”
Source: Joel Embiid is experiencing a lot of pain in that right knee. His LCL sprain is typically a 4-6 week recovery. I’m told it would be a pleasant surprise if he were able to play in either of the first two games in Boston.
— Jason Dumas (@JDumasReports) April 29, 2023
This is a pretty gigantic blow to Philly’s title hopes. While the team can still count on guys like James Harden and Tyrese Maxey to carry the load, the 76ers need all the help they can get against this Celtics team, especially defensively.
Sadly, injuries like this have become the story of Joel’s career and it seems this year will be another example of his own body getting in the way of his greatness.
Are The 76ers Doomed To Lose Without Embiid?
The Celtics are going to bring their best vs. the Sixers in the series and they are sure to take advantage of Embiid’s absence in the first few games.
While there is some optimism that the star big man will return at some point down the road, he will likely have to play through pain if he ends up playing again at all this season.
“Source confirms Joel Embiid has a sprained LCL. He may have to wear a brace for the knee when he returns,” wrote NBA Insider John Clark. “There is some hope that he can play towards the beginning of the Sixers second round series but he will be playing through a knee injury.”
It’s hard to figure out where the 76ers go from here. Embiid is obviously their star player and the only one keeping them relevant. But his repeated injuries and lack of durability have held the team back from reaching their potential.
We sincerely appreciate and respect you as a reader of our site. It would help us a lot if you follow us on Google News because of the latest update.
Thanks for following us. We really appreciate your support.
