Heat vs. 76ers Injury Report: Multiple Superstars Potentially Sidelined

Reigning MVP Joel Embiid is out versus the Miami Heat, while Heat star Jimmy Butler is questionable

The Miami Heat (17-12) are taking on the shorthanded Philadelphia 76ers (20-8) on Christmas.

However, Philadelphia may not stand alone with lineup struggles. Multiple key contributors on the Heat's roster are questionable for the showcase.

Miami has won two consecutive games against the Orlando Magic and Atlanta Hawks, advancing them to the No. 5 seed in the Eastern Conference. Meanwhile, the Sixers took down the Toronto Raptors on Friday evening.

Here's the injury report:

HEAT

Jimmy Butler: Questionable - Left Calf Strain

Haywood Highsmith: Questionable - Head Cold - NonCovid

Josh Richardson: Probable - Back Spasms

Dru Smith: Out - Right Acl 3rd Degree Sprain

76ERS

Mo Bamba: Probable - Illness

Nicolas Batum: Out - Right Hamstring Strain

Ricky Council IV: Out - G League - Two-Way

Robert Covington: Probable - Right Knee Effusion

Joel Embiid: Out - Right Ankle Sprain

Terquavion Smith: Out - G League - Two-Way

Even in the absence of Embiid, taking down the 76ers is a tall task. Rising star Tyrese Maxey is having a breakout season, averaging 26.4 points on 46.8 percent shooting. The offense runs through the reigning MVP, but it can succeed with him on the sideline.

Miami's last two contests have taken place without Butler in the lineup. However, the emergence of guard Tyler Herro has propelled them to victory. He could find similar dominance against a Philadelphia backcourt that is mediocre on defense outside of Patrick Beverley.

Gabe Vincent Drawing Kendrick Nunn Comparisons Following Potential Surgery Announcement

Anthony Pasciolla works as a contributing writer to Inside the Heat.

He can be reached at ampasciolla@gmail.com or follow him on Instagram @anthonypasci

You can also check out his personal blog HERE

Follow all of our Miami Heat coverage on Facebook HERE

Subscribe to our YouTube channel HERE