The Philadelphia 76ers will be missing two key players, Joel Embiid and Paul George, in their upcoming game against the Cleveland Cavaliers, as reported by ESPN’s Shams Charania. The decision to hold both stars out stems from injury management, particularly due to left knee concerns, and comes on the second night of a back-to-back. The 76ers are fresh off a 111-99 loss to the New York Knicks, and with the team focusing on long-term health, Embiid and George will sit this one out.
Despite expressing a desire to play, Embiid acknowledged that the decision was ultimately up to the team’s medical staff. After his season debut, in which he played 26 minutes and scored 13 points, the star center made it clear that although he hoped to be on the floor against Cleveland, his participation depended on the staff’s evaluation. “I feel good right now,” Embiid said, referring to his health after the loss to the Knicks. However, he added that he would respect the team’s choice, even though he had joked about playing through back-to-backs earlier in the season.
The absence of Embiid and George comes at a critical time for the 76ers, who are struggling to find consistency with Tyrese Maxey also sidelined due to a right hamstring strain. Without their top scorers and playmakers, the 76ers face a tough challenge against the undefeated Cavaliers, who have proven to be a formidable team this season. The matchup against Cleveland will be even more challenging given the 76ers’ current 2-8 record, and they will need a standout performance from rookie Jared McCain to help carry the load in the absence of their star players.
The Cavaliers are not without their own injury concerns, with starting center Jarrett Allen listed as questionable due to a left lower leg strain. In addition, players like Sam Merrill (left ankle soreness) and Max Strus (right ankle sprain) remain uncertain for the game. However, even with some of their key players potentially unavailable, Cleveland is still expected to be a strong opponent for the 76ers, who are already struggling to find a rhythm early in the season.
As Philadelphia faces yet another difficult matchup, their long-term focus on player health and recovery continues to shape their decisions on the court. For Embiid and George, missing this game is part of a broader strategy to ensure their readiness for the rest of the season, rather than risking further injury in a back-to-back scenario. The 76ers will need to adapt quickly if they are to turn things around, but with key players out of action, their depth will be tested against one of the league’s best teams.