76ers Could Face Warriors Without Joel Embiid, James Harden

James Harden and Joel Embiid are questionable to play against the Warriors on Friday.

The Philadelphia 76ers have a realistic chance of facing the Golden State Warriors without two of their star players. James Harden, who missed the Sixers’ Wednesday night matchup against the Chicago Bulls, is listed as questionable on Friday ahead of the Golden State Warriors matchup.

The big man Joel Embiid, who checked in for just 16 minutes on Wednesday, is questionable to play as well. 

Harden’s absence on Wednesday came after the guard was believed to be “hurting” against the Bulls on Monday. As the Sixers prepared for their Wednesday night matchup, Harden was questionable with Achilles soreness. A couple of hours before tip-off, he was ruled out.

As for Embiid, he started experiencing calf tightness in Wednesday’s win over the Bulls. After checking in for two shifts in the first half, Embiid wouldn’t return to the floor at all in the second half. Initially, it was reported that Embiid was sitting out due to “score differential” as the Sixers had a notable lead over the Bulls.

Toward the end of the game, it was reported that Embiid battled calf tightness in the first half. Following the matchup, head coach Doc Rivers was under the belief that Embiid was fine. The big man himself confirmed that much after the game.

"I think he’ll be ready for the next game,” Rivers said. “It’s just a precaution. We had a lead, you know, felt like we could hold it and whenever you hear calf, you just say, ‘That's it,’ but I’m not concerned.”

"Like I always say, it’s all about the playoffs,” Embiid told reporters. “Trying to make sure that I get there healthy. We’re just gonna see how it goes the next few days. …. If it feels good, of course I want to play."

Although Rivers was hopeful that both stars would be back on the court Friday night to face the Warriors, neither are guaranteed to play. It’s likely Embiid, and Harden will have to go through morning shootaround and pregame warmups before determining whether or not they are healthy enough to play. 

Justin Grasso covers the Philadelphia 76ers for All76ers, a Sports Illustrated channel. You can follow him for live updates on Twitter: @JGrasso_.