The Philadelphia 76ers are continuing to play without star big man Joel Embiid. The big fella missed his third consecutive game on Friday against the Houston Rockets. The Sixers were able to defeat the Rockets 131-127, but obviously, Philadelphia would like to have its MVP back in the lineup.
Considering the Sixers will head to Chicago to face the Bulls on Saturday to complete the four-game road trip, there is no sense having Embiid make the trip for one game. Therefore, the big fella has been ruled out against Chicago.
However, coach Nick Nurse is optimistic he will return when the Sixers get back home to face the Bulls again on Jan. 2.
“He’s on the court again,” Nurse told reporters before the game. “He’s still a little sore, but he was on the court again today. Just try to make sure that he’s a little bit better before we bring him back. He won’t be won’t make the trip, now, but very hopeful that he’ll be ready for the next one.”
Embiid is averaging a robust 35 points, 11.7 rebounds and 6 assists on the season. Philadelphia has played well in spurts without the superstar big man, but the Sixers would like to have him back sooner rather than later.
Nic Batum missed his fifth consecutive game on Friday due to a right hamstring strain. Nurse confirmed the plan is for him to return on Saturday against the Bulls.
“Barring anything happening between now and then,” Nurse stated. “He’ll be cleared to play. Yup.”
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