Philadelphia 76ers center Joel Embiid will not participate in the highly anticipated game against the New York Knicks on December 12, 2023, at Madison Square Garden. The decision comes as Embiid is managing an illness and soreness in his right knee. Initially listed as questionable due to illness, it was later confirmed that the knee issue, which has plagued him since early November, necessitated his absence from the matchup.
Embiid’s absence is not entirely unexpected. He has missed a total of 14 games this season, adhering to a strict regimen that prevents him from playing on consecutive nights. His prior knee troubles led to a nine-game absence earlier in the season, raising concerns about his long-term health. Following the Knicks game, the Sixers will face the Dallas Mavericks on December 13, making the decision to rest Embiid a careful one.
In terms of performance, the 7-foot-2, 280-pound star has been averaging 20.5 points, 6.6 rebounds, and 2.8 assists per game. Notably, he had a season-high 39 points alongside nine rebounds in a win against the Indiana Pacers earlier this month. Just two days later, he contributed 22 points and a season-high 14 rebounds in a close loss to the Atlanta Hawks.
Embiid is not the only player sidelined for the Sixers. Kelly Oubre Jr. and Trendon Watford will also miss the game against the Knicks. Oubre Jr. has been a key contributor this season, adding depth to the roster, while Watford’s absence adds to the team’s challenges.
As the Sixers navigate these injuries, the focus will be on how they adapt without their star player. The team’s performance against the Knicks will be critical in maintaining their standing in the league, especially as they approach a busy schedule ahead. Fans will be eager to see how the team adjusts and whether they can secure a victory in this crucial matchup without their leading scorer.
