The Philadelphia 76ers will be without All-Star center Joel Embiid for Game 2 of their first-round series against the New York Knicks tonight, according to the NBA’s official injury report.
Embiid had initially been listed as probable but was downgraded after experiencing increased soreness in his right ankle and additional right hip discomfort. Team officials said the reigning MVP did not participate in the morning shootaround and has been undergoing round-the-clock treatment since Game 1.
Key numbers
• Embiid averaged 28.7 points, 8.7 rebounds and 7.3 assists while leading Philadelphia’s comeback in Games 5-7 of the previous series against Boston.
• The 76ers were +31 with him on the floor during those three wins.
• In Game 1 versus New York, he finished with 14 points on 3-of-11 shooting.
Front-court adjustments
With Embiid sidelined, head coach Nick Nurse is expected to split most of the center minutes between Andre Drummond and rookie Adem Bona. Drummond averaged more than 24 minutes per game in the Boston series, while Bona saw spot duty off the bench.
Perimeter scoring load
The absence of Embiid places greater offensive responsibility on guards Tyrese Maxey and VJ Edgecombe, along with veteran forward Paul George. All three are likely to see increased usage as Philadelphia tries to even the series at Madison Square Garden.
Game 2 tips off tonight in New York, where the Sixers will attempt to compensate for the loss of their franchise centerpiece.
Source: Hoops Wire
