Embiid to Sit vs. Magic; Barlow’s Elbow Procedure, Drummond’s Spark, Edwards’ Search for Minutes Highlight Sixers Updates
embiid-out-magic-barlow-injury-drummond-edwards-sixers
PHILADELPHIA — The 76ers will hold All-Star center Joel Embiid out of Monday’s meeting with the Orlando Magic as part of “left knee injury management,” according to the Philadelphia Inquirer. The decision follows the club’s plan to be cautious with Embiid’s workload after he logged limited minutes in the season’s first two games.
Embiid delivered 20 points in 20 minutes during Saturday’s win over the Hornets, adding four assists and two steals while scoring nine of Philadelphia’s first 18 points. The reigning MVP acknowledged the challenge of maximizing shorter bursts of playing time. “Longer stints, you’ll actually be able to let the game come to you,” he said. “But I can’t sit for too long… You need to play, and you need to play a lot.”
Barlow sidelined at least two games
Rookie forward Dominick Barlow will miss a minimum of two contests after sustaining a laceration on his right elbow that requires a procedure Monday. The team will reevaluate him later in the week. Barlow, elevated to the starting power-forward spot in Paul George’s injury absence despite his two-way contract, posted 13 points, eight rebounds and five assists on opening night against Boston before exiting Saturday’s game after fewer than 16 minutes.
Drummond makes most of opportunity
Veteran center Andre Drummond, left out of head coach Nick Nurse’s rotation in the opener, grabbed 13 rebounds in only 15 minutes versus Charlotte, helping swing the game. “I’m thrilled that he was able to play so well,” Nurse said. “Now I’m kind of wondering why I didn’t use him earlier.”
Edwards leans on Drummond’s guidance
Second-year guard Justin Edwards, who struggled to secure minutes during Summer League and preseason, scored nine points after halftime against the Hornets. Edwards credited Drummond for keeping him prepared. “I have him sit next to me every game,” Drummond said. “I tell him, ‘Don’t lose yourself in this… stay ready, continue to work, and when your number is called, you’re going to be ready to go.’”
The Sixers continue their three-game homestand Monday night against Orlando.
Source: Hoops Rumors
