What Is Joel Embiid's Injury Status? Latest News on 76ers Star Ahead of Celtics Game

Philadelphia 76ers center Joel Embiid is going to miss a second straight game due to soreness in his right knee.

The Sixers announced Embiid won't play on Tuesday night against the Boston Celtics and he is being evaluated by team doctors (h/t Kyle Neubeck of PHLY Sports).

Embiid, as part of his load management plan, sat for Sunday's loss to the Detroit Pistons on the second night of a back-to-back.

Embiid returned this season after playing just 19 games in 2024-25 due to knee concerns. He has averaged 19.7 points on 46.0 percent shooting and 5.5 rebounds in six starts.

The 2022-23 NBA MVP suffered a torn lateral meniscus on Jan. 30, 2024, and missed the next two months. He returned for the final regular season stretch plus the playoffs.

Unfortunately, the left knee gave Embiid problems last season, to the point where he nearly missed the entire season. He was eventually shut down in February and underwent arthroscopic surgery in April.

Embiid had a good offseason and was able to participate in the team's training camp. He made his 2025-26 debut with the 76ers for their final preseason game on Oct. 17 against the Minnesota Timberwolves, posting 14 points, eight assists, seven rebounds and three steals in 19 minutes.

The 76ers have been cautious with him in the early stages of the season. He's averaged just 22.3 minutes per game and will miss his fifth game, including Tuesday night.

Embiid is still extremely valuable to the 76ers, obviously, and their quest for a playoff spot. Andre Drummond and Adem Bona will shoulder the load at center with Embiid sidelined.

Ultimately, Philadelphia's future is being built around Tyrese Maxey and VJ Edgecombe. The backcourt duo has led the Sixers to a 6-4 start entering Tuesday's game against the Celtics.