Will Joel Embiid play tonight against the Toronto Raptors?

Roger Smith Jr.

•
Will Joel Embiid play tonight against the Toronto Raptors? image

The Philadelphia 76ers are on the second leg of a back-to-back rematch against the Toronto Raptors. Their first game yesterday was a close game where the Raptors narrowly pulled out the dub in overtime, 116-115. 

Tyrese Maxey continues his superstar performance by finishing with 38 points while going 10-12 from the free-throw line within 45 minutes of playing time. Scottie Barnes finished the game with a near triple-double of his own. He scored 31 points, grabbed 7 rebounds, and made 8 assists. What sealed the win for the Raptors, however, was Barnes nailing the tiebreaking free-throw in overtime with 0.8 seconds remaining.

Joel Embiid's potential return

Joel Embiid sat out of yesterday’s game due to left knee injury management and left groin soreness. With that being said, it’s to be expected that the Sixers will have Embiid sit out one game of a back-to-back at this point in his career. He played the last six games without having any type of restrictions, with his highest minutes played being 40 against the Denver Nuggets, the most he played all season. 

MORE: 76ers enjoying a Joel Embiid 'miracle' after injury history

So, given his recent production, Embiid is heading in the right direction in terms of staying on the court. Although he has been listed with questionable tags right before his games each time, he’s been fighting through it while contributing in different ways to help his team win. Embiid will likely shake off the questionable tag and battle against the Toronto Raptors. 

However, it wouldn’t be surprising if the team decides to sit him out altogether to give him even more rest. The Sixers will benefit even more if he’s available and increase their likelihood of winning, potentially boosting their record to 22-16.

More NBA news:

 

Senior Editor