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Philadelphia 76ers return to Barclays Center on Friday night for their final Emirates NBA Cup group-play matchup, but they do so with a roster heavily shaped by injuries. As they prepare to face the Brooklyn Nets for the second time this season, the Sixers’ availability concerns have become one of the defining storylines of the contest. With several core players sidelined and others still being monitored, Philadelphia’s depth will face a significant test in a crucial Cup fixture.
Sixers aiming to reassert control after first meeting dominance
Philadelphia previously handled the Nets with ease in a 129-105 win on November 2, a game highlighted by an explosive outing from Kelly Oubre Jr., who poured in 29 points—22 of them in a blistering first quarter. Tyrese Maxey followed with 26 points, and Quentin Grimes added 22 as the Sixers controlled the tempo from start to finish. Cam Thomas led Brooklyn with 29 points in that matchup, but much has changed for both squads heading into the rematch.
The Sixers are coming off a challenging outing against the Orlando Magic, where they were forced to compete without several key contributors. Orlando capitalized, running away with a 144-103 victory in Philadelphia. The game also saw Trendon Watford exit in the first half due to injury and not return, adding to the team’s growing list of concerns.
Despite the setback, the 76ers remain focused on securing momentum as the tournament progresses. Their ability to compete at a high level, even shorthanded, has been one of the defining attributes of their early-season identity. Tonight’s game will once again demand resilience under pressure.
Philadelphia 76ers Injury Report: Who’s in and who’s out
The Sixers’ medical report ahead of the Nets contest presents a blend of confirmed absences and last-minute evaluations. Here’s the latest update:
Adem Bona (Right Ankle Sprain) – Probable
Paul George (Right Ankle Sprain) – Questionable
VJ Edgecombe (Left Calf Injury Management) – Out
Joel Embiid (Right Knee Injury Management) – Out
Kelly Oubre Jr. (Left Knee Sprain) – Out
Trendon Watford (Left Adductor Strain) – Out
The continued absence of Joel Embiid and Kelly Oubre Jr. significantly alters Philadelphia’s rotation. Embiid’s interior presence and Oubre’s scoring versatility were central to their earlier win over Brooklyn. VJ Edgecombe and Trendon Watford being out further reduces wing depth, while Paul George’s questionable status leaves a substantial void if he is unable to suit up.
Adem Bona being upgraded to probable does offer some frontcourt stability, though the rookie remains under careful monitoring.
Impact on tonight’s totation
With multiple starters sidelined, head coach Nick Nurse will need to rely heavily on Tyrese Maxey, Quentin Grimes, and the supporting cast to maintain offensive rhythm.
Tonight’s matchup carries heightened significance given its position as the final group-play game in the NBA Cup.
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