Is Joel Embiid playing tonight against Miami Heat? Latest on reigning NBA MVP’s status (April 4)

There is uncertainty surrounding Joel Embiid’s availability for Thursday’s match-up between the Philadelphia 76ers and Miami Heat. After being sidelined since Jan. 30, he made his return on Tuesday against the OKC Thunder. Despite the long break, he showed a strong offensive performance, recording 24 points and seven assists in the 109-105 victory.

Despite missing over two months of action, Embiid is slowly regaining his rhythm on the court. This was evident in his defensive performance against the Thunder. Although there is still room for improvement, he exceeded expectations and is expected to continue playing in the upcoming game against the Heat.

Philly will be careful with his recovery, so it wouldn’t be unexpected if he is changed to out before the game starts.

The Injury History of Joel Embiid

Despite dealing with a knee problem for weeks, Embiid was able to play through it until he aggravated the injury against the Golden State Warriors on Jan. 30. The injury, which required surgery, was a left knee meniscus injury that occurred when Jonathan Kuminga fell on Embiid’s knee late in the fourth quarter. As a result, the reigning NBA MVP will be out for an extended period of time.

Joel Embiid’s Performance Against the Miami Heat

In the 17 times he has faced the Miami Heat, Joel Embiid has maintained an average of 23.6 points, 10.8 rebounds, and 2.5 assists. Out of these 17 games, he has emerged victorious in seven. His most impressive performance against the Heat was on Jan. 12, 2021, when he scored 45 points, grabbed 16 rebounds, dished out four assists, and recorded five steals, shooting an impressive 69.6%.

Despite not playing against the Heat this season, Embiid’s absence has resulted in a 1-2 record for the 76ers against their conference rivals. The 76ers will be counting on his return to improve their chances of tying the season series.

The Heat will have a nearly complete team, with only Tyler Herro unable to play. Jimmy Butler, Bam Adebayo, and Terry Rozier are all in good health. In comparison, the 76ers may have a disadvantage as Tobias Harris and Tyrese Maxey are listed as questionable alongside Joel Embiid on the injury report.

Possible NBA investigation into 76ers’ handling of Joel Embiid’s injury status

Prior to Tuesday’s game against the OKC Thunder, the Philadelphia 76ers’ injury report listed Embiid as unavailable. However, shortly before the game, his status was updated from questionable to available. The Sixers’ handling of this situation has caused some controversy, as it appears to have been handled in a complicated manner.

According to TNT, an investigation will be conducted by the NBA regarding the 76ers’ management of Embiid’s status for the game. This would mark the team’s second instance of scrutiny, following a similar violation in January when Embiid was unexpectedly declared out against the Denver Nuggets.

The Sixers were fined $75,000 by the NBA.