Believe it or not, the Philadelphia 76ers won't have Joel Embiid at their disposal for Game 2 against the New York Knicks.
Moments ago, ESPN's Shams Charania reported that Embiid has been ruled out for Game 2 of the 76ers-Knicks series. The former MVP is currently battling ankle and hip injuries. It's unclear if he'll be back for Game 3.
"Embiid was unable to participate in the team’s shootaround this morning after experiencing increased soreness in both his ankle and hip," Charania said. "He had been receiving around-the-clock treatment in efforts to play."
This is devastating news for the 76ers, make no mistake about it. However, Nick Nurse's roster has experience playing without Embiid.
In fact, V.J. Edgecombe and Tyrese Maxey powered the 76ers to an 111-97 win in the second game of their series with the Boston Celtics. Maybe they'll have a similar performance tonight at Madison Square Garden.
© Brad Penner-Imagn Images.
Embiid was called out after Game 1.
Unfortunately for Embiid, the past 48 hours haven't been ideal to say the least. Not only did he go 3-of-11 from the field for 14 points in Game 1, he was called out by former New York Giants running back and WFAN host Tiki Barber.
Barber had an issue with Embiid bringing up his recent injury. Prior to the start of the playoffs, he underwent emergency surgery to treat appendicitis.
“If it’s gonna hurt, to physically be hurt, and someone might run into you, accidentally or otherwise, don’t play. I remember when I had a broken arm in 2000? I had to tape my other arm because they were literally stepping on it, knowing I had a broken arm. I didn’t complain about it,” Barber said. “It’s part of the risk of playing hurt. So, stop being a b—-.”
Embiid hasn't fired back at Barber. To be fair, he's spending the majority of his time in the recovery room.
We'll see if the 76ers can rally without Embiid on the hardwood.
