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Joel Embiid will play in home opener vs. Trail Blazers

The center will suit up.

By Chinmay Vaidya Updated
Philadelphia 76ers v Toronto Raptors
Joel Embiid of Philadelphia 76ers looks on against the Toronto Raptors during first half of their basketball game at the Scotiabank Arena on October 28, 2023 in Toronto, Ontario, Canada.
Photo by Mark Blinch/Getty Images

Update: In a surprising reversal, Embiid will play and gets the start against Portland. There’s a possibility the 76ers create enough of a gap to where Embiid gets some more rest within the game, but he’s going to suit up for the home fans.

The Philadelphia 76ers are set to rest center Joel Embiid for the team’s home opener Sunday, with the contest being the second of a back-to-back set. Embiid is officially listed as questionable on the team’s injury report but is leaning towards sitting out.

This is not a nationally televised contest, so the 76ers don’t necessarily have to give advanced notice when resting Embiid. James Harden is also not suiting up due to reconditioning, so Tyrese Maxey and Tobias Harris will be the primary offensive options for Philadelphia. Paul Reed is likely to get the start at center ahead of Embiid, with Mo Bamba serving as the primary backup.

The 76ers are still 7.5-point favorites at DraftKings Sportsbook, so this could be a good spot to back the Trail Blazers. Even with Anfernee Simons sidelined, the Blazers have enough firepower to keep this close with the 76ers choosing to sit their stars.

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