Kyle Lowry’s Injury Status for 76ers vs. Pelicans on Friday

When the Philadelphia 76ers approached their Wednesday night battle against the undermanned Memphis Grizzlies, they faced a few key absences of their own.

Joel Embiid, as expected, remained out after undergoing knee surgery last month. The star guard Tyrese Maxey was another player ruled out, as he remained in the NBA’s concussion protocol after hitting his head on a defender’s knee last weekend in Dallas.

Kyle Lowry was another player that got the night off due to rest. At 37 years old, the veteran ball-handler has been cautious this season as he prioritizes making it to the playoffs healthy, where he could be a key contributor for Philadelphia.

Since debuting with the Sixers on February 22, Lowry appeared in six of eight possible games. Although he started in just half of those matchups, Lowry averaged nearly 30 minutes on the court.

During that time, the veteran guard produced nine points, three rebounds, and six assists per game while shooting 46 percent from the field and 44 percent from three.

While Lowry’s All-Star days are behind him, his veteran experience has been a critical boost for Philadelphia, especially in the absence of Joel Embiid. Without Lowry on Wednesday night against Memphis, the Sixers were lacking in the organization department in the eyes of head coach, Nick Nurse.

Missing several key players, the Sixers couldn't overcome those absences and found themselves collecting a six-point loss.

Fortunately, Lowry’s absence isn’t long-term. When the Sixers take on the New Orleans Pelicans on Friday night, Lowry is expected to make his return to the floor. Barring any unexpected setbacks, the Sixers intend to make Lowry available for his seventh appearance with the team this year.