The Philadelphia 76ers have been dealt a major blow as star center Joel Embiid will miss their upcoming matchup against the Denver Nuggets due to a knee injury. Embiid has been one of the most dominant players in the league this season, averaging 28.5 points, 11.1 rebounds, and 3.3 assists per game. His absence will be a huge loss for the 76ers, as they look to continue their push for the playoffs.
The matchup between Embiid and Denver Nuggets center Nikola Jokic was highly anticipated, as both players have been two of the best in the league this season. Jokic is averaging a triple-double with 20.7 points, 10.9 rebounds, and 10.2 assists per game. He has been a key part of the Nuggets’ success this season, as they currently sit in second place in the Western Conference.
The 76ers will have to find a way to make up for Embiid’s absence against the Nuggets. They will likely turn to veteran center Al Horford to fill the void left by Embiid. Horford is averaging 12.9 points and 6.7 rebounds per game this season and will have to step up his game if the 76ers are to have any chance of winning against the Nuggets.
The absence of Embiid will also likely mean more minutes for rookie Matisse Thybulle. Thybulle has been a key part of the 76ers’ defense this season, averaging 1.4 steals and 1.2 blocks per game. He will need to be at his best if the 76ers are to contain Jokic and the rest of the Nuggets’ offense.
The matchup between Embiid and Jokic was sure to be an exciting one, but unfortunately it will not happen due to Embiid’s injury. The 76ers will have to find a way to make up for his absence if they are to have any chance of winning against the Nuggets. It will be interesting to see how they adjust without their star center on the court.
