Philadelphia 76ers Handed New Joel Embiid Fitness Worry

The Philadelphia 76ers recorded a brilliant Christmas Day 118-114 victory against the Boston Celtics. It seems like they have finally acquired the momentum which was lacking earlier in the season.

Joel Embiid scored 27 points with 9 rebounds and 2 assists against the Celtics after being ejected against the San Antonio Spurs for two technical fouls days earlier.

It seems like the Sixers have finally adapted to this situation of not having much involvement from Embiid, as his availability has been questionable throughout this season.

Embiid's injury-plagued season has raised questions about his future. And he continues to struggle with a variety of issues.

According to Noah Levick of NBC Sports Philadelphia, the 76ers listed Embiid as questionable Friday night. He appeared on the team’s injury report for its matchup against the Jazz with a designation of “left foot sprain and right sinus fracture — mask.”

However, Embiid’s absence shouldn't be a matter of concern for the Sixers to compete for a win against the Jazz who are currently sitting at 14th in the West with a 7-22 record.

Amidst the consistent unavailability of Embiid, players like Tyrese Maxey, Paul George and Kelly Oubre Jr have stepped up to the plate. 

Maxey recorded the fifth 30-point (33) and 10-assist (12) performance of his career in the win over the Celtics. George is two 3-pointers away from surpassing Hall of Famer Vince Carter (2,290) for ninth on the NBA’s all-time 3-pointers list.

The Sixers have surely found a ray of hope through the momentum they have gained with ongoing wins where the Jazz could be third on the trot. But they still need to put a hell lot of fight to get into the playoffs and compete for the championship.