Sixers Veteran’s Absence Extended vs. Magic

The Sixers will continue to roll without Robert Covington on Friday against the Magic.

The Philadelphia 76ers might’ve gotten their All-Star center Joel Embiid back in the mix for two games earlier this week, but a few injured prospects remain sidelined heading into Friday’s game against the Orlando Magic.

Among the players ruled out on Philly’s side is the veteran forward, Robert Covington.

Similar to the MVP big man Embiid, Covington has been dealing with knee inflammation. Unfortunately, his injury has stretched multiple weeks at this point.

Ever since the Sixers opened the new year with a matchup at home against the Chicago Bulls, Covington was ruled out as he dealt with a knee effusion. He’s missed the Sixers’ previous seven games, and Friday’s outing against the Magic will make it eight in a row.

Following the Sixers’ Thursday afternoon practice session before their travel to Orlando, 76ers head coach Nick Nurse noted that Covington would not make the trip down to Florida this week. With the Sixers having a quick turnaround, picking up a matchup against the Charlotte Hornets on Saturday as well, Covington also isn’t expected to travel for that matchup.

On the bright side, Nurse revealed that Covington is “doing a lot of stuff” in practice, according to Clutch Points’ Sam DiGiovanni. While he couldn’t put an exact timeline on Covington’s return, Nurse speculates that the veteran’s return is “right around the corner.” 

After the Sixers wrap up a two-game set on the road against the Magic and the Hornets, they’ll return to the floor next Monday to host the San Antonio Spurs. Nurse and the Sixers are hopeful that could serve as Covington’s return to the bench.