“It makes me excited because I think that actually might keep me healthy.” Before the season began, Joel Embiid was hyped about sharing the court with Paul George. Of course, he was hoping that a superstar of PG’s caliber would make the work easier for him and the former MVP would not have to risk injury by overexerting himself like last year. However, things have not gone according to plan as the duo has only played thirteen games together and is frequently sidelined due to injury concerns. And that might be the case once again for tonight’s Bucks clash!

Yes, Embiid will not suit up tonight. The reason? A swelling in his left knee. It’s the same issue he has been dealing with since he tore his meniscus last year. Unfortunately, the swelling increased after Thursday’s workout, and he was forced to miss yesterday’s Pacers game. And he will be re-evaluated in seven to ten days.

Obviously, that is a massive blow to the team because Joel has been in decent form when healthy, averaging 24.4 points and nearly eight rebounds. However, his being healthy hasn’t happened very often. Before the latest knee issue, the former MVP missed the previous six games with a sprained left foot.

Adding to the concerns, his teammate Paul George could also sit out tonight as he is dealing with left groin tightness. He too missed the Pacers clash because of the issue. Apart from the groin injury, PG has also been working through a hurt ankle. Of course, these problems have affected his productivity as his scoring average has dropped to 17.2 points.

Meanwhile, Guerschon Yabusele, Kyle Lowry, Caleb Martin, and KJ Martin, are likely to be unavailable as they also missed last night’s game due to injury. And star rookie Jared McCain’s season is already over after undergoing knee surgery. Obviously, these setbacks will make tonight’s challenge even harder for the Philly franchise.

Sixers and Bucks’ Depth Chart

With Embiid out and PG’s availability uncertain, this is what the Sixers’ depth chart looks like:

Until now, Yabusele had been taking Joel’s starting spot amid his absence. But the backup Center is also dealing with an injury, which means Andre Drummond could see an increase in playing time. And Paul is likely to be replaced by Ricky Council IV or Eric Gordon if he doesn’t suit up.

Meanwhile, this is what the Bucks’ depth chart looks like:

Well, they are also dealing with some injury concerns, with the biggest one being Khris Middleton. He is listed as ‘probable’ due to ongoing ankle issues. Joining him with the same status is MarJon Beauchamp, who is working through an illness. Moreover, Andre Jackson Jr. and AJ Green are ‘questionable’ to play.

Even without these stars, the Bucks will pose a major threat to their opponents because Giannis Antetokounmpo and Damian Lillard are both playing at an elite level. Moreover, they have already beaten the Sixers once this season and they could do it again tonight in Embiid’s absence. Whose side are you on?