76ers News: Nick Nurse Provides Update on Pair of Starters

Coming off their Christmas Day matchup against the Miami Heat, the Philadelphia 76ers traveled to Orlando to square off against the Magic. Leading up to the action, head coach Nick Nurse provided updates on two starters who have been out of action.

In their recent matchups, the Sixers have been without the services of Nicolas Batum and Joel Embiid. The veteran forward is dealing with a hamstring injury, while the reigning MVP rolled his ankle awkwardly against the Toronto Raptors.

During his pregame availability, Nurse was asked about the status of Batum and Embiid. He feels Batum could make his return to the lineup this weekend. The Sixers have a back-to-back Friday and Saturday against the Houston Rockets and Chicago Bulls.

As for Embiid, he did not travel with the team on this road trip. While staying in Philly, the training staff continues to work with him and his injured ankle. Nurse was unable to give an exact answer on when he'll be able to make his return to the lineup.

Sixers coach Nick Nurse said Nicolas Batum is expected to play either Friday or Saturday in Houston or Chicago, while Joel Embiid went through some more on court work today back in Philadelphia and his status for this weekend’s games remains unclear.
— Tim Bontemps (@TimBontemps) December 27, 2023

Despite being without Embiid and Batum, the Sixers were able to get back to their winning ways in Orlando. Led by Tyrese Maxey (23 points) and Tobias Harris (22 points), they were able to take down the Magic by a final score of 112-92. This marked the first time this season the Sixers were able to win a game with Embiid out of the lineup.

Situations like this are where being one of the deeper teams in the league is a luxury. Even without two starters, Nurse has an array of talented players to utilize. The shorthanded squad will look to keep their winning ways going on Friday night as they travel to Houston to take on the Rockets.