Sixers Center Joel Embiid Ruled Out For Game 2
sixers-center-joel-embiid-ruled-out-for-game-2
The Philadelphia 76ers have officially scratched Joel Embiid from Wednesday’s Game 2 because of a right ankle sprain and right hip soreness. The change in status, first reported by ESPN’s Shams Charania, comes after the All-Star center had initially been listed as probable.
Charania reported that Embiid experienced increased discomfort in both the ankle and hip following Monday’s series opener and was unable to take part in the morning shootaround. The 30-year-old has been receiving continuous treatment since the injury flared up but did not recover in time.
Embiid returned in Game 4 of the first round just weeks after an emergency appendectomy and then fueled Philadelphia’s comeback from a 3-1 deficit against Boston, averaging 28.7 points, 8.7 rebounds and 7.3 assists in Games 5-7. Philadelphia was plus-31 with him on the floor during those three victories.
The former MVP struggled in Monday’s 118-88 loss to the New York Knicks, finishing with 14 points on 3-for-11 shooting.
With Embiid sidelined, head coach Nick Nurse is expected to rely on rookie Adem Bona, who started the first three games against Boston, and veteran Andre Drummond, who averaged 24.3 minutes in that span. Guards Tyrese Maxey and VJ Edgecombe, along with forward Paul George, will likely shoulder additional offensive responsibilities.
Source: Hoops Rumors
