Joel Embiid out for Games 1 and 2 vs. Heat, could return for Game 3
The Philadelphia 76ers know they will at least begin their Round 2 series with the Miami Heat shorthanded on Monday. They will have to go to battle with the No. 1 seed in the East without Joel Embiid who is out due to an orbital fracture.
Embiid will not travel with the Sixers to Miami for Games 1 and 2 meaning Philadelphia will have to go on the road and try and get one without the MVP candidate big man. There is, however, hope that he can return for the Sixers either Game 3 or Game 4. Game 3 would be on Friday back at the Wells Fargo Center.
ESPN Sources: Joel Embiid won’t travel for Games 1 and 2 in Miami, but there’s optimism he could return as soon as either Game 3 or 4 in Philadelphia. He needs to clear concussion protocols and see doctor mid-week on his orbital fracture. More on NBA Countdown at 12:30 ET on ABC.
— Adrian Wojnarowski (@wojespn) May 1, 2022
This will be a tall task for the Sixers without Embiid. The Heat are a tough and physical team who attack weaknesses and without the big fella back there, more pressure will be placed upon James Harden and Tyrese Maxey to score the ball.
Game 1 is on Monday at 7:30 p.m. EDT from FTX Arena in South Florida.
This post originally appeared on Sixers Wire! Follow us on Facebook!
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