In a significant development for the Philadelphia 76ers, star center Joel Embiid has been upgraded from out to questionable for the upcoming game against the Atlanta Hawks. This update brings renewed optimism for a team grappling with numerous injuries early in the NBA season.
Recent Performance and Injury Update
The 76ers enjoyed a recent victory, defeating the Brooklyn Nets 115-103 in their last NBA Cup game. This win marked a welcome break as they deal with a long list of injuries. Throughout the Brooklyn matchup, the 76ers maintained control and never fell behind.
- Adem Bona played a crucial role, stepping in for the injured Andre Drummond.
- Tyrese Maxey excelled with a near triple-double, attracting considerable defensive attention.
- Jared McCain recorded a season-high 20 points, along with five steals.
Despite the Nets’ struggles this season, this win provided the 76ers with a much-needed boost. They now look forward to facing the Hawks, currently ranked fifth in the Eastern Conference with a 12-8 record.
Injury Report
The 76ers’ injury list is concerning, featuring the following players:
- Joel Embiid – right knee injury (questionable)
- Kelly Oubre Jr. – left knee sprain (out)
- Trendon Watford – left adductor strain (out)
- Andre Drummond – sprained knee (questionable)
- VJ Edgecombe – also upgraded to questionable
In contrast, the Atlanta Hawks will continue to navigate life without star guard Trae Young, who has missed a month due to a knee injury but is expected to be reevaluated soon. Kristaps Porzingis is unavailable due to illness, which has led to Onyeka Okongwu stepping in as the starting center.
Contributions from the Hawks
Although lacking Porzingis’s scoring threat, Okongwu has shown notable improvement this season. He averages 16.5 points per game with a 41.3% success rate from three-point range. His recent standout performance included making eight three-pointers in a game against the Utah Jazz.
The Hawks have exhibited impressive team depth, particularly in the absence of Young. Jalen Johnson has stepped up, averaging 21.9 points, 9.6 rebounds, and 7.3 assists per game. His performance has solidified his candidacy for an All-Star selection, eclipsing the all-time triple-doubles record previously held by Young.
Nickeil Alexander-Walker has also played a significant role, contributing an average of 19.3 points per game with strong shooting percentages.
Looking Ahead
The upcoming matchup between the 76ers and the Hawks poses a significant challenge. Philadelphia will rely on strong performances from players like Maxey and McCain to secure a victory.
The game is set for Sunday evening at Xfinity Mobile Arena in Philadelphia. Fans are eager to witness how both teams respond to their current challenges as the season progresses.
