Joel

Embiid

Back in the 76ers’ lineup for the first time since February 7, Embiid started and played 26 minutes on Tuesday. A combination of an unspecified minutes limit and Philadelphia winning by a 135-114 final score helped with the management of the 7-footer’s workload. Embiid was effective while on the floor, even if his mobility remains an issue. Philadelphia’s final two games of Week 8 are on Thursday and Sunday; hopefully, that ensures fantasy managers of two more Embiid games.

Following a five-game absence, Embiid will be back in the lineup to take on Indiana. His return will push Andre Drummond back to the bench, though managers shouldn’t rush to drop him since Embiid could still miss time moving forward.

Embiid has missed the last five games with various injuries. While he could return Tuesday against the Pacers, the 31-year-old’s status is still up in the air given his questionable listing. Andre Drummond started and had six points and nine rebounds in 22 minutes in Embiid’s absence on Sunday against the Timberwolves. Drummond would likely start again if Embiid remains out Tuesday.

Embiid will miss a fifth straight game as he continues to manage multiple ailments. Andre Drummond has been starting in his place for all but one of those games, with Adem Bona occupying the role for the other. One of the two should start against Minnesota, with Drummond being the preferred streaming option.

Saturday’s game will be the fourth that Embiid has missed due to right knee injury management. His continued absence means the 76ers will rely on Andre Drummond and Adem Bona to hold down the fort at the center position.

Embiid missed Philadelphia’s final two games before the All-Star break, and there was hope that he would be healthy enough to play after the break. Unfortunately, that won’t be the case. Andre Drummond should continue to start, with Adem Bona slotting in as the backup.

This will be a second straight absence for Embiid, and it seems the goal here was to get him a little extra rest before the All-Star break. He should be rejuvenated for their matchup with the Hawks on Feb. 19. Andre Drummond should be in line for another start with Embiid out.

Embiid did not play in Monday’s loss to the Trail Blazers, opening up a spot in the starting lineup for Andre Drummond. If the 2023 league MVP can play against the Knicks, Drummond will likely fall out of the rotation entirely.

Embiid will miss the final game of Philadelphia’s road trip due to right knee injury management. As a result, Andre Drummond likely slots in as the starting center, with Adem Bona serving as the backup.

Embiid was also listed as questionable ahead of Saturday’s win over the Suns, a game in which he played 33 minutes. Look for him to take on a similar workload on Monday if cleared to play. If Embiid can’t play, the 76ers will turn to Andre Drummond to move into the starting lineup.