‘Huge blow’ Sixers’ super star is now in doubt to play NBA In-Season Tournament vs. Hawks

Joel Embiid’s participation in the Philadelphia 76ers’ upcoming NBA In-Season Tournament game against the Atlanta Hawks is in question. The Sixers, led by Embiid, are set to play their third tournament game, aiming to rebound after their first IST loss. However, the star player is currently listed as questionable on the NBA injury report due to left hip soreness.

Notably, this marks the third consecutive game with the “questionable” designation for Embiid, though he has managed to play in every game thus far in the 2023-24 season. Despite the recent loss to the undermanned Boston Celtics in a back-to-back scenario, Embiid remains committed to maximizing his playing time this season, even with the demanding schedule of four games in six nights. His determination to contribute is evident despite the ongoing concern about his left hip soreness.

The Sixers have already ruled out Nicolas Batum (personal reasons) and Kelly Oubre Jr. (fractured rib), while Hawks rookies Kobe Bufkin (left thumb fracture) and Mouhamed Gueye (right low back stress fracture) are also out. After winning the Detroit Pistons and falling to the Indiana Pacers, the Sixers are currently third in East Group A of the NBA In-Season Tournament standings. The Hawks are also 1-0 after defeating Detroit.

To stay alive, Philadelphia must win. Even if Indiana loses a game, the head-to-head record of the teams determines the winner of a group. As a result, the Sixers must win out and increase their point differential to secure wild-card status.