76ers vs. Hawks: De’Anthony Melton’s Playing Status on Wednesday

After a three-day break, the Philadelphia 76ers continue their 2023-2024 NBA season with a matchup against the Atlanta Hawks on Wednesday night.

Heading into the game, the Sixers had several players on the injury report. Once again, the starting guard De’Anthony Melton was a name present, as he’s missed a handful of games lately.

The 76ers revealed Melton was dealing with back soreness last week. When the team opened up the new year with a matchup at home against the Chicago Bulls, Melton was fouled out for the 13-point victory.

Although there was hope for his return a few nights later against the New York Knicks, the Sixers ruled out Melton for a second straight game. That absence ended up becoming the first time Melton missed consecutive matchups this season.

Prior to the Sixers’ loss to the Knicks, Melton participated in workouts after shootaround and before the game. However, he still wasn’t cleared for action last Saturday when the Sixers hosted the Utah Jazz. At that point, Melton missed three games in a row.

Will Melton Return Against the Hawks?

The Sixers fired up two practice sessions to begin the week. Melton was reportedly a full participant in both sessions before the Sixers traveled to Atlanta ahead of Wednesday’s matchup.

When the Sixers released their injury report for the matchup, Melton was listed as questionable. It was a sign that the Sixers’ starter was moving in the right direction with his recovery.

Fortunately, it was the final step in his recovery before returning to the court. By avoiding any further setbacks over the past week, Melton is cleared to make his return for the first matchup of this week's slate.

The Sixers and the Hawks are set to battle it out at 7:30 PM ET. on Wednesday.