Philadelphia 76ers will once again take the floor without their franchise centerpiece, Joel Embiid, as the star forward continues to manage right knee soreness. Ahead of Monday night’s matchup against the Los Angeles Clippers, the team has officially ruled him out, extending a frustrating stretch on the sidelines for the reigning MVP candidate.
Joel Embiid to miss fourth straight game
Monday’s contest marks the fourth consecutive game Embiid will miss after experiencing discomfort during shootaround prior to the 76ers’ meeting with the Boston Celtics last week. Despite undergoing imaging that revealed no structural damage, the persistent soreness has kept the Sixers cautious with their superstar’s workload. While the diagnosis is encouraging, the lingering issue remains significant enough to prevent him from returning to action.
Through six appearances this season, Joel Embiid has averaged 19.7 points, 5.5 rebounds, 3.3 assists, and 1.5 blocks in just 23.3 minutes per game, demonstrating his impact even in limited minutes. However, Philadelphia must now continue navigating key matchups without the dominant presence of their interior anchor.
Injuries continue to complicate 76ers’ Season
The Sixers have dealt with a string of health setbacks early in the year. Embiid’s limited availability adds to a list that already includes second-year guard Jared McCain, who has appeared in only three games while working back from knee and thumb surgeries. Additionally, veteran forward Paul George—recovering from offseason knee surgery—has yet to make his season debut, though that return appears imminent.
These absences have forced Philadelphia to adjust rotations and rely heavily on emerging contributors. The team’s resilience, however, has kept them competitive. Despite the injuries, the 76ers have started the season with a solid 7-5 record, positioning themselves sixth in the Eastern Conference.
Impact on the Clippers matchup
Without Joel Embiid, the Sixers will once again turn to their supporting cast to carry the load in the paint. His absence affects both ends of the floor—removing a primary scoring option and a defensive anchor—but Philadelphia has found ways to remain competitive thanks to elevated performances from their perimeter players.
Facing a Clippers squad also dealing with key injuries, the 76ers will need to continue relying on pace, perimeter shooting, and defensive cohesion as they aim to stay above .500 while their star forward recovers.
As Embiid remains day-to-day with right knee soreness, Philadelphia’s approach continues to prioritize long-term health over short-term availability. His eventual return will undeniably shift the Sixers’ ceiling—but for now, the team moves forward without him as they prepare to host Los Angeles.