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Joel Embiid, Philadelphia 76ers

Going into a win-or-go-home matchup against the Boston Celtics, the Philadelphia 76ers have some good news to report: Joel Embiid seemingly dodged a notable setback.

It’s been a tough road for Embiid, who has dealt with several setbacks throughout the year. While he returned to the court for Game 4 against the Celtics, the star center once again is battling through setbacks just to play in the postseason.

GettyPHILADELPHIA, PENNSYLVANIA – MARCH 25: Joel Embiid #21 of the Philadelphia 76ers warms up prior to the game against the Chicago Bulls at Xfinity Mobile Arena on March 25, 2026 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.

During the Sixers’ Game 5 win on the road in Boston, Embiid bumped knees with another player deep into the second half. He went back to the locker room, but the setback wasn’t severe enough to keep him out for long.

Moments later, Embiid was back on the court. He was a massive difference-maker for the Sixers, who ended up completing a comeback with a stunning Game 5 win.

Philadelphia 76ers’ Injury Report Reveals Significant Joel Embiid Update

GettyCHICAGO, ILLINOIS – NOVEMBER 04: Joel Embiid #21 of the Philadelphia 76ers reacts against the Chicago Bulls during the first half at the United Center on November 04, 2025 in Chicago, Illinois. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Michael Reaves/Getty Images)

At this point of the playoffs, the Sixers have removed Kelly Oubre from the injury report. While Joel Embiid and Tyrese Maxey (available) remain listed, they are both on pace to play in Thursday night’s Game 6 battle.

Embiid’s injury reason on the report was something key to pay attention to. While he was expected to be added due to appendectomy surgery recovery, any designation for a knee issue would’ve been a concern.

Fortunately, the Sixers didn’t note anything about Embiid’s knee. Nick Nurse addressed that concern on Wednesday at the practice facility.

via Kyle Neubeck, PHLY: Just spoke with Nick Nurse at the Sixers’ facility, he told reporters that after the knee scare last night, what he heard was that Joel Embiid came out of the game fine and he has not heard anything to the contrary as of this afternoon.

GettyPHILADELPHIA, PENNSYLVANIA – NOVEMBER 30: Joel Embiid #21 of the Philadelphia 76ers looks on during the second half against the Atlanta Hawks at Xfinity Mobile Arena on November 30, 2025 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Emilee Chinn/Getty Images)

Joel Embiid is probable for the Game 6 action at home. Barring any unexpected setbacks, he is set to suit up for his third-straight playoff game this postseason.

In the two games Embiid played, the Sixers are 1-1. The veteran center averaged 29.5 points, 7.0 rebounds, 7.0 assists, and 1.0 blocks.

If the 76ers can pull off a win on Thursday night, they’ll force Game 7 in Boston on Saturday, May 2. The Game 6 battle is set for an 8 PM ET tip.