The Philadelphia 76ers are facing a challenging period as they juggle player illnesses along with their game preparations. Fortunately, superstar Joel Embiid is listed as probable to play against the Brooklyn Nets on Tuesday night. Embiid, who missed the previous two games due to an illness and management of a right knee injury, participated fully in practice on Monday. Head coach Nick Nurse noted that Embiid appeared to be in better shape and reported feeling improved.
Prior to his recent absences, Embiid showcased outstanding form, scoring a season-high 39 points in a victory over the Indiana Pacers and grabbing 14 rebounds in a challenging loss to the Atlanta Hawks. However, the illness has affected other team members as well; Tyrese Maxey previously missed two games due to similar health issues.
Unfortunately, the infectious illness seems to be spreading within the team. Both Dominick Barlow and Quentin Grimes are now listed as questionable for Tuesday’s matchup. Barlow has been instrumental, starting the last 10 games for the Sixers, while Grimes has only missed one game this season. Additionally, Kelly Oubre Jr. and Trendon Watford are still sidelined, though they were able to engage in individual drills during practice on Monday.
On the opposing side, the Nets will be missing promising rookie Drake Powell due to a right ankle sprain, and Cam Thomas is out with a left hamstring strain. Former 76ers player Haywood Highsmith is also unavailable as he continues his recovery from offseason knee surgery.
The 76ers are set to host the Nets before embarking on a five-game road trip that begins Friday in Chicago against the Bulls. In a last-minute update, the team has canceled this morning’s shootaround, and VJ Edgecombe has now been listed as questionable due to illness as well. The situation emphasizes the need for teams to remain vigilant against health challenges while hoping for a quick return to full strength.