Joel Embiid’s Injury Report Status for Sixers vs. Magic

Will Joel Embiid get cleared for the Philadelphia 76ers' matchup against the Orlando Magic?

Feb 1, 2023; Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA; Philadelphia 76ers center Joel Embiid (21) dribbles / Bill Streicher-USA TODAY Sports

Since the return of Joel Embiid, the Philadelphia 76ers have turned back into one of the NBA’s hottest teams.

On Friday night, the Sixers hope to keep the flame alive in a critical matchup against the Orlando Magic.

On the Sixers’ initial injury report, Embiid is listed as questionable for the sixth game in a row. As the team is only willing to play the big man based on how his knee feels on the day of the matchup, he remains a game-time decision.

The good news is that Embiid hasn’t shown any signs of discomfort. Even though the big man had a scare during the Sixers’ Tuesday night meeting with the Detroit Pistons, the MVP made it clear that he was just fine. When the Sixers returned to practice on Thursday, Embiid remained a participant.

Throughout the season, Embiid dealt with knee concerns. During the Sixers’ January 30 matchup against the Golden State Warriors, Embiid left during the fourth quarter after a player fell on his knee. The injury would require an MRI. After getting diagnosed with an unspecified meniscus injury, Embiid underwent surgery.

From February 1 to March 31, Embiid remained off the court. Last Tuesday, he returned to action and took on the Oklahoma City Thunder. In a 29-minute shift, the big man scored 24 points on 43 percent shooting. He also came down with six rebounds and produced seven assists.

Each game since his return, Embiid has improved as he settled in. Appearing in all but one of the Sixers’ previous five games, Embiid has averaged 30 points, eight rebounds, and five assists.

The Sixers are still battling for a spot in the 2024 NBA Playoffs. With the Magic in town on Friday, Philly can improve their chances with a seventh-straight victory. Considering Embiid is by far the most prominent player on the team, his presence would be a major boost.

For now, the Sixers are undecided on his playing status.

The Sixers and the Magic will tip-off at 7 PM ET.