PHILADELPHIA – The Philadelphia 76ers’ playoff aspirations are increasingly clouded by the health and availability of stars Joel Embiid and Paul George, a reality underscored by a recent overtime loss and a concerning pattern of injuries. Currently 10-9, the team faces a challenging week with four games scheduled against Washington, a back-to-back against Golden State and Milwaukee, and a Sunday matchup with the Los angeles Lakers.
The 76ers narrowly defeated the Boston Celtics 117-116 in double overtime on Monday, a game where Tyrese Maxey carried a significant load, playing 52 minutes. George contributed 16 points despite shooting 2-of-8 from three-point range, while Embiid, hampered by ongoing injuries, was limited to four rebounds and a diminished defensive impact. Maxey missed two crucial free throws late in overtime that could have secured a four-point lead.
Embiid’s injuries have demonstrably impacted his performance, reducing his mobility and effectiveness as a defender. the 31-year-old has appeared in only seven of 19 games this season, following a 2023-24 season limited to 19 games due to a sprained left foot, a sinus fracture, and subsequent arthroscopic knee surgery. he signed a three-year, $193 million extension in 2024 that doesn’t begin until next season.
George, in the second year of a four-year, $212 million contract, also faces potential limitations, with both he and Embiid likely to sit out at least one game of the upcoming back-to-back. the team was routed by Orlando last week by 46 points when both players where unavailable, along with Nicolas Batum.
Coach Nick Nurse acknowledges the ongoing challenge of fielding a consistent lineup,a struggle familiar to previous Sixers coaches Doc Rivers and Brett Brown. Despite the roster instability, Nurse has kept the team in contention for an Eastern Conference playoff spot. However, both Nurse and Embiid recognize the team’s ceiling is directly tied to the health and performance of Embiid and George.
“I do feel bad,” Embiid said.”It’s unfortunate. You can only control what you can control. If anybody thinks that I don’t wont to play every game,that’s their problem. History has shown I’ll do anything to play just one game of basketball. I do feel bad.The minutes that he has to play, the load that he has to handle, I’ve been there. I know how he feels.”
The Sixers’ investment in Embiid and George represents a significant financial commitment to two players with a history of injury concerns. While Maxey’s emergence as a “bona fide explosive scorer” offers a new dynamic,Embiid’s ability to regain his MVP form and establish a consistent two-man game remains a critical factor for the team’s success.
