As the Philadelphia 76ers lock horns with the Detroit Pistons on Friday, both teams will start with different agendas heading into this matchup. The Pistons will be worried about their dwindling performance in the last couple of games, whereas the Sixers will go with only one aim—to look for a play-in spot to salvage their up-and-down season. Also, the Pistons are chasing a playoff spot, thanks to Cade Cunningham, who’s amidst an impressive season. But is Joel Embiid coming back? Wait, we will discuss it.
Moreover, young superstar Tyrese Maxey has been playing with a chip on his shoulder. He’s been leading the charge for the Sixers as two veterans, Paul George and Joel Embiid have been in and out frequently this season. But what is the update now? Let’s take a look at the injury reports of both teams, especially the 76ers, to find out who’s not available for tonight’s highly anticipated clash.
Sixers vs Pistons injury reports before the tip-off at the Little Caesars Arena
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Starting with the 76ers, Joel Embiid made a comeback on the hardwood clocking in 36 minutes in the loss against Miami. So, will Embiid play in two consecutive games? As things stand, the big man is set to make an appearance tonight. Embiid has just played 14 games this season averaging 24.7 points, 8.1 rebounds, and 4.3 assists.
Given the Sixers ‘ injury woes, Embiid is expected to play a big role tonight, as they could be without the French man Guerschon Yabusele. The forward has sustained a knee injury that might keep him out for this game. Moreover, backup center Andre Drummond is ruled out from the game because of a toe injury. Lastly, but arguably the most notable absence will be rookie Jared McCain. Unfortunately, the young guard underwent surgery on his left knee and was ruled out for the rest of the season. The list is long!
via Imago
On the flip side, the Pistons also don’t seem to be doing well. They have several players on the report including their superstar Cade Cunningham. The 23-year-old is questionable for tonight’s clash because of a right ankle sprain. So far, Cunningham has been averaging 25.6 points, 9.4 assists, and 6.3 rebounds and has been the deciding factor for his team in several games. Not having him available will decrease Detroit’s winning chances significantly.
Moving on, Malik Beasley might also be on day-to-day as well, because of a left shoulder strain. Forward Tobias Harris is also probable for the Sixers game as he recovers from a left calf contusion. Lastly, Jaden Ivey has resumed light-weight-bearing activity. As he continues his recovery from a lower leg injury. Injuries have hit both teams hard, so they will step on the court with changed lineups. So, let’s see how they can line up against each other.
Sixers and Pistons’ predicted lineups
Overall, the Sixers have Embiid back! That’s huge news, but the team still has a lot of work to do. That said, with the trio of Maxey, Embiid, and George the Sixers will look for a win tonight. However, Cade Cunningham and Co. won’t go down without a fight, and this could be the deciding factor for them. So let’s see how the two teams stack up against each other.
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Here’s the Philadelphia 76ers’ predicted starting five:
Position | Starters |
PG | Tyrese Maxey |
SG | Kelly Oubre Jr. |
SF | Paul George |
PF | Guerschon Yabusele (questionable) |
C | Joel Embiid |
Here’s the Detroit Pistons’ predicted starting five:
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Position | Starters |
PG | Cade Cunningham |
SG | Tim Hardaway Jr. |
SF | Ausar Thompson |
PF | Tobias Harris (questionable) |
C | Jalen Duren |
The Pistons have been solid this season and are more than capable of taking down the 76ers, but it will be worth seeing if they can tap on the Sixers’ injury worry. It will be interesting to see who comes out on top, as the ball hits the air tonight.