Philadelphia 76ers have an important upcoming match with one of the most successful franchises in the NBA, Boston Celtics. These two teams have an intense rivalry that goes back to the 1950s. Coming in with hot form, the Celtics are undefeated in their last 8 home games. And the other advantage with the Green is that multiple Sixers’ players are injured, which makes the job for Philly far more challenging.
The man who can save the 76ers from a humiliating loss against the Celtics is Joel Embiid. And his availability is the focus point going into this matchup.
Is Joel Embiid going to play against Beantown?
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When the Sixers went up against the Pelicans, Embiid was forced to sit out due to an illness. So, because of his absence, the Sixers were evidently unable to dominate the court like they generally do and suffered a 124-114 loss. Despite the spectacular performance delivered by Tyrese Maxey, who put up 33 points, the Sixers’ defense was too easy to penetrate for the Pelicans.
The reigning MVP is the cornerstone of the 76ers’ success, averaging 32.0 points, 11.3 rebounds, and 6.6 assists per game. The team’s 0-2 record without him highlights his importance. While supporters are waiting for a confirmation on Embiid’s condition, according to the injury report, Joel Embiid’s status is questionable, and he even missed the morning shoot-around with his team.
Joel Embiid misses Sixers shootaround, remains questionable vs. Celtics https://t.co/VD7ZdijV1E via @phillyinquirer
— Keith Pompey (@PompeyOnSixers) December 1, 2023
It is not only the Sixers, however, whose roster is plagued with injuries. Even Celtics’ star player Kristaps Porzingis, the athletic center has been ruled out due to a calf injury.
Read More: Apart From Taking 6,944,800 Lives, Deadly Disease Also Ruined Joel Embiid’s Legacy With Under Armour
He has only managed to play 15 matches in which he averaged 18.9 points and 6.7 rebounds per game. As the two teams are at the fighting end of an intense rivalry, what is the recent record between the Sixers and the Celtics?
How have the teams fared in their previous head-to-head battles this season?
This is the third time the Sixers and the Celtics are going to face each other this season. In the first match, Joel Embiid showcased his talent by leading his team to a 106-103 victory. He managed to deliver 27 points and get 10 rebounds. The Celtics, however, came back strong and won the next match 117-107.
The anticipated return of Joel Embiid into the lineup against the Celtics should swing the odds in Philadelphia’s favor. However, the Celtics are confident going into this match due to their home-court edge and recent successes. The showdown between these Eastern Conference heavyweights surely sounds like an exciting night of basketball.
Watch this Story: “It’s Scary But…”: Self-Confident Joel Embiid Gives Honest Take On Crunch Time Brilliance vs Okc
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