76ers' Joel Embiid Plans for Preseason Debut vs. Hawks

After missing the Brooklyn Nets matchup, Joel Embiid is eyeing a preseason debut on Friday against the Hawks.

Monday’s game against the Brooklyn Nets was expected to serve as Joel Embiid’s 2023 preseason debut. Unfortunately, the Philadelphia 76ers ruled out the big man on the morning of the matchup.

Embiid was not with the team on Monday. According to the team’s head coach, Nick Nurse, Embiid was feeling under the weather. Therefore, his preseason debut was pushed back another game.

Friday’s game at home against the Atlanta Hawks serves as the final time the Sixers can trot out Embiid before the games start to count toward their record. Barring any unexpected setbacks once again, Embiid appears to be on pace to play Friday.

“I’m good,” Embiid told reporters on Wednesday, according to Sixers Wire’s Ky Carlin. “That’s the goal. I was supposed to play last game, but some things happen. I couldn’t play, but I’m good. That’s the plan for now so hopefully, come Friday, I’ll be ready to go.”

After recovering from a knee injury in the offseason, Embiid returned to the 76ers for training camp fully healthy. Fortunately, that’s remained the case throughout the first couple of weeks. 

Still, Embiid hasn’t taken the floor for a live game against players who aren’t his teammates. When the Sixers opened up the preseason against the Boston Celtics, Embiid joined James Harden in taking the night off due to rest. 

Three nights later, when the Celtics paid the 76ers a visit in South Philly, Nick Nurse kept up with the trend of keeping his All-Stars off the floor. Monday night in Brooklyn would’ve been the first look at Embiid in Nurse’s high-paced system. 

Despite the big man not taking the floor after all, the Sixers found success against the Mikal Bridges-less Nets, forcing 28 turnovers and knocking down 41 percent of their threes. Never losing grip of the lead, the Sixers picked up their first victory in Brooklyn, winning 127-119.

With one game left, Embiid should get an opportunity to get into some live action before the Sixers make their trip to Fiserv Forum to face the Milwaukee Bucks on October 26. 

---

Related Reading

76ers vs. Nets Standouts: The Sixers finally picked up a win in the preseason after dropping their first two games against the Boston Celtics. In the shorthanded victory, which three 76ers stood out en route to their victory over the Nets? READ MORE

Rotation Predictions: Nick Nurse isn’t ready to finalize his rotation. While there are roughly six players already locked in, there are a handful of prospects who are in the hunt. Check out the predictions for the Sixers’ rotation for when the regular season rolls around. READ MORE

Exchanging Final Favors: James Harden made his frustration with the 76ers clear throughout the course of the offseason. While the Sixers’ star doesn’t have any desire to mend his relationship with the front office, he’s doing the team one last favor as they look to satisfy his trade request. READ MORE