The Philadelphia 76ers are facing off against the Brooklyn Nets in the first round of the NBA Eastern Conference playoffs. The series has been lopsided so far in favor of the 76ers. They lead the series three games to none and will hope to complete the sweep in today’s game.
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Joel Embiid has been a dominant force in the series scoring 20 PPG, 11.3 RPG, and 2.3 BPG. Another player that has stepped up for the Sixers is Tyrese Maxey, leading the team in scoring at 23.7 PPG. The first two games proved comfortable victories for the Philly team, whereas the Nets fought back in the third game.
Despite their efforts in Game Three, the Nets could not cross the line in a game filled with drama and intensity. The game saw three flagrant fouls and two ejections leading to much debate off the court. Mikal Bridges continued his hot form for the Nets since the trade from the Suns and is leading all scorers with 25.7 PPG.
Joel Embiid ruled out for Game 4 against the Nets
The Philadelphia 76ers superstar and finalist for the Most Valuable Player award – Joel Embiid, has been ruled out for the fourth game of the series against the Brooklyn Nets. As reported by ESPN’s NBA insider, Adrian Wojnarowski, Joel suffered a sprained right knee and will not be available.
ESPN Sources with @Ramonashelburne: An MRI revealed Sixers star Joel Embiid suffered a sprained right knee and will miss Game 4 vs. Brooklyn on Saturday. There’s optimism he could be ready to return as soon as early next week. pic.twitter.com/Btwm3ls8Vh
— Adrian Wojnarowski (@wojespn) April 22, 2023
This news comes as a blow for the Sixers team who would be hoping that the injury does not keep their star player out for long. Though the team is capable of winning Game Four without Joel against an inferior Brooklyn team, his services will be needed in the semi-finals.
How will the Sixers replace Joel Embiid’s minutes?
With Embiid out for Game Four, Tyrese Maxey is expected to be back in the starting lineup, with PJ Tucker moving to the center position. This move will considerably affect the size of the team but is also likely to improve the spacing on the floor.
Doc Rivers might also turn to Montrez Harrell to compensate for the lack of size during the game. Though the player has seen his minutes reduce over the months, his size could prove crucial for an otherwise small team. With their center out, Tobias Harris and De’Anthony Melton will need to crash the glass and help prevent the Nets score second-chance points.
