Sixers rule Joel Embiid and Paul George out of the season opener due to injuries. This unfortunate news comes as both players were expected to play pivotal roles in the Philadelphia 76ers’ campaign.
Paul George, who recently transitioned from the Los Angeles Clippers to the 76ers with a lucrative four-year, $212 million contract, faced a setback when he suffered a bone bruise after hyperextending his left knee during a preseason match.
In a similar vein, the Milwaukee Bucks also experienced a loss of star power before the season kicks off. Coach Doc Rivers confirmed that Bucks forward Khris Middleton will not be in the lineup for the opener as he continues to recover from offseason ankle surgeries.
“It’s pretty much a certainty that Middleton won’t play,” Rivers stated, emphasizing the cautious approach taken with the three-time All-Star.
George’s injury occurred during a defensive play against Atlanta, leading to a knee buckle that left him sidelined. On his podcast, “Podcast P with Paul George,” he reassured fans that while the injury was concerning, there was no major damage, and he remained optimistic about a quick recovery.
“My leg just got stuck,” George explained, recalling the moment of injury. “When I went to push off, my momentum caused my leg to go inwards. I knew something was off right away.”
As the Sixers prepare for their upcoming games, including a matchup against Indiana, George remains hopeful, stating, “I’m going to be good. I should be back sooner than later.”
Meanwhile, Joel Embiid finds himself in a familiar situation, having missed the preseason due to a sore left knee. The team reported that he is responding well to his rehab plan and is scheduled for scrimmages, but he will not participate in the game against Toronto this Friday.
Coach Nick Nurse provided an update, indicating that Embiid has been active and has lost some weight during his recovery. “There have been no setbacks,” he noted, emphasizing the importance of a careful return to full play.
As a two-time NBA scoring champion and a key player for the Sixers, Embiid’s health is crucial for the team’s aspirations. He understands the significance of being fit for the playoffs, stating, “We’ve got to do whatever it takes to make sure that in the postseason I’m healthy.”
Last season, the 76ers had a remarkable record of 31-8 with Embiid on the court, showcasing his impact on the team’s performance. In contrast, they struggled significantly without him, finishing 16-27.
Ahead of training camp, Embiid revealed he had lost around 25 to 30 pounds over the summer, aiming to maintain better conditioning throughout the long season. “I believe with the guys that we have, we have a pretty good chance at a title,” he asserted.
With George, the reigning NBA MVP Embiid, and All-Star guard Tyrese Maxey on the roster, the 76ers were poised to form a formidable trio this season. Maxey is expected to play despite a bruised right thumb suffered in the preseason, with Rivers indicating that if it were a playoff game, he would likely be on the court.
In Middleton’s absence, Taurean Prince has been stepping up as a starter for the Bucks, showcasing the depth and adaptability of both teams as they navigate the early stages of the season.
