The Philadelphia 76ers will have to face the Los Angeles Clippers without their star player, Joel Embiid, who is sidelined for Sunday’s game due to swelling in his left knee. Embiid, the reigning NBA MVP, has been a dominant force for the 76ers this season, but this latest setback raises concerns about his health and the team’s ability to continue their strong start without him.
Embiid’s absence will certainly be felt by the 76ers, who are looking to keep pace in a competitive Eastern Conference. This marks the first time this season that Embiid has been forced to sit out a game due to injury, though he has had occasional issues with his knees in the past. The 7-foot center has had to manage knee problems throughout his career, and while this latest issue is not expected to be severe, it’s a reminder of the challenges the 76ers face in keeping their MVP-caliber player healthy over the long haul of an 82-game season.
Embiid’s knee issues have been a point of concern throughout his career. He missed the first two seasons of his career due to foot and knee injuries and has had to be carefully managed ever since. The 2024 season has been particularly strong for Embiid, with the big man putting up stellar performances in the early weeks, averaging 28.3 points, 11.5 rebounds, and 4.2 assists per game. His presence on the floor is pivotal to the 76ers’ success, as his offensive versatility, elite rebounding, and defensive prowess make him one of the most well-rounded players in the league.
The injury comes at a crucial point in the season, with the 76ers looking to build on their strong start and position themselves for a deep playoff run. Embiid’s absence leaves a gaping hole in the middle, both offensively and defensively. Without him, the team will likely rely more heavily on their other All-Star, James Harden, to shoulder the offensive load. Harden has been playing at a high level this season, averaging 22.9 points, 7.9 assists, and 7.8 rebounds per game, but without Embiid to space the floor and provide a dominant inside presence, he may face additional pressure.
In Embiid’s absence, the 76ers will likely turn to their other big men to fill the void. Montrezl Harrell, who was signed by the 76ers in the offseason, could see more playing time. Harrell, known for his energy and scoring off the bench, doesn’t possess the same skill set as Embiid, but he brings toughness and tenacity that could help keep the team competitive. Paul Reed, another reserve big, could also play a larger role, offering a more mobile and defensive-minded presence in the paint.
In addition to the bigs, the 76ers will need contributions from their perimeter players. Tyrese Maxey, in particular, could see an uptick in usage, as the young guard has emerged as a dynamic scorer this season. Maxey has averaged 20.1 points per game and has shown significant improvement as a playmaker and defender. With Embiid out, Maxey’s ability to attack the basket, space the floor, and facilitate offense will be crucial to keeping the team afloat.
Tobias Harris, the 76ers’ steady forward, will also play a key role in filling the void left by Embiid. Harris has been a reliable scorer, averaging 19.0 points per game this season. While he’s not the focal point of the offense, his ability to create his own shot and contribute on both ends of the floor will be vital in keeping the 76ers competitive against the Clippers and in the games to come.
The loss of Embiid means the 76ers will need to adjust their game plan, particularly on the offensive end. The team’s offense has often been built around Embiid’s ability to dominate in the post, draw double teams, and kick out to open shooters. Without Embiid, the 76ers may rely more on ball movement, spacing the floor, and getting out in transition. With Harden and Maxey capable of running pick-and-rolls and creating their own shots, the 76ers could shift to a more perimeter-oriented offense while still using their bigs to provide rim protection and rebound.
Defensively, Embiid’s absence presents a significant challenge. The MVP center is one of the league’s best shot blockers and has consistently anchored the 76ers’ defense. Without him, the team will need to step up their collective defensive effort. Harrell and Reed will have to be more active around the rim, while players like P.J. Tucker and Harris will need to take on more responsibility as individual defenders to limit the Clippers’ offensive opportunities.
While Embiid’s knee injury is not expected to keep him sidelined for long, the 76ers must approach this situation with caution. The team’s medical staff will undoubtedly monitor his condition closely and take a conservative approach to his recovery. The 76ers’ season depends largely on keeping Embiid healthy, as he is the cornerstone of their championship aspirations.
In the meantime, the 76ers will look to prove that they can thrive without their MVP. Sunday’s game against the Clippers will be an important test for the team’s depth and resilience. With a challenging stretch of games ahead, including matchups against other Western Conference contenders, the 76ers will need to rally together and demonstrate their ability to win in tough circumstances. If the team can hold their ground and remain competitive, they’ll be well-positioned to support Embiid when he returns to full health and continue their quest for an NBA championship.
For now, all eyes will be on the 76ers as they take on the Clippers without their star player, hoping that the team can rise to the occasion in Embiid’s absence.