The Philadelphia 76ers could see the return of Joel Embiid on Tuesday night against the Orlando Magic.
According to the team's official injury report, Embiid's status has been upgraded to questionable. While that doesn't guarantee he's on pace to make his return, it's a positive sign to see the Sixers open the door for him to potentially suit up against the Magic.
After starting strong in the health department back in October, Embiid has struggled with knee soreness as of late. The Sixers faced the Toronto Raptors on November 8, opening a back-to-back set. Embiid missed the previous game due to knee injury management.
Against the Raptors, Embiid checked in for just under 26 minutes. He shot 10-16 from the field, scoring 29 points. He also added six rebounds, four assists, and one blocks in the 130-120 Sixers win over Toronto.
Embiid ended up missing the following game, as expected. However, his absence during the November 11 matchup against the Boston Celtics was unexpected. On the morning of the matchup, Embiid reported knee soreness. The Sixers downgraded him, and had the star big man undergo an MRI.
The MRI had promising results, showing no structural damage. But the Sixers weren't able to utilize Embiid for the following games. After he missed Sunday's action against the Miami Heat, Embiid missed seven games in a row. His total is set at nine so far this season.
When healthy, Embiid has been productive, considering the circumstances. Since the opening matchup, Embiid has been on a restriction, failing to see more than 25 minutes of playing time through six games. Over that stretch, Embiid averaged 19.7 points, 5.5 rebounds, and 3.3 assists. He's been shooting 46 percent from the field and 32 percent from beyond the arc.
With Embiid healthy, the Sixers have gone 4-2. Without him, they hold a record of 5-5. Their most recent game against the Heat resulted in a 127-117 loss. Heading into Tuesday's action, the Sixers have a 9-7 record. They are tied with the Chicago Bulls in the Eastern Conference.
Along with Embiid, the Sixers' injury report includes Tyrese Maxey, Paul George, Adem Bona, VJ Edgecombe, and Kelly Oubre Jr.
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