76ers vs. Timberwolves: Joel Embiid’s Playing Status on Wednesday

Will Joel Embiid face the Timberwolves on Wednesday?

The Philadelphia 76ers will battle it out against the Minnesota Timberwolves on Wednesday night. For the first time this season, they’ll compete without their star center Joel Embiid.

According to a team official, Embiid has been ruled out for Wednesday’s game due to hip soreness. Wednesday’s game marks the second matchup of a back-to-back set.

Following Tuesday night’s loss against the Cleveland Cavaliers, Sixers head coach Nick Nurse noted that he was unsure about Embiid’s status against Minnesota.

“We certainly have to look at that once we get on the plane," he said. "Obviously, heavy, heavy minutes for a lot of guys.”

Embiid then followed up with confirmation, noting that his participation on Wednesday wasn’t guaranteed.

“I’m not sure,” he said when asked about his playing status against the Wolves. “We’re going to figure out what happens, so I’ll just listen to them. I’ve been beat up a little bit, so we’ll see with them and then go from there.”

After evaluating the situation, Embiid will get the night off. It’s a logical decision by the Sixers, considering the circumstances. Through the first 14 games of the 2023-2024 season, Embiid played even when he was questionable for four of the matchups. Heading into Tuesday’s game, Embiid averaged 34 minutes on the court. On Tuesday, he played for 41 minutes.

Considering Embiid has been admittedly not one hundred percent, a night off is necessary for the star center. Finding the right balance between keeping Embiid as healthy and active as possible is a priority for Philadelphia. Giving him a night to rest and recover is a move that could be beneficial in the long run.