Joel Embiid injury update: NBA insider shares latest status of 76ers star's availability for game against Pistons

Joel Embiid will miss the Philadelphia 76ers' upcoming road trip against the Detroit Pistons Saturday. He has been dealing with a troubling left knee injury and personal reasons that will keep him sidelined for the fourth consecutive game.

The former MVP has been nursing the injury for a while, and the 76ers have managed it as best as possible to prevent any aggravation. According to Derek Bodner of PHLY Sports, coach Nick Nurse said the swelling in Embiid's knee has decreased, but the big man is still experiencing some soreness.

Embiid's absence has been felt, and the team has struggled to find consistency without him. They have lost eight of their last ten games, falling to 3-14 on the season. They will look to bounce back against the Pistons, but it may not be easy without their star player.

Paul George, who has been dealing with a left knee bone bruise, was a full participant in Friday's practice and may return to the roster Saturday.

While Embiid's return date remains unclear, Tuesday's NBA Cup game against the Hornets will be the next opportunity he'll have to take the floor. Embiid is putting up 19.8 points, 7.5 rebounds, and 3.5 assists per game this season.

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Embiid vs. Pistons

In nine seasons with the 76ers, Joel Embiid has played against the Detroit Pistons on 19 occasions. He averaged 30.3 points, 11.6 rebounds, and 2.8 assists against them.

Joel Embiid in action for Philadelphia 76ers against Detroit Pistons. (Credits: IMAGN)

One of his best performances against Detroit was during the 2023 season, when he dropped 41 points, 11 rebounds and five assists.