Will Joel Embiid play against the Portland Trail Blazers tonight? Latest update on the Philadelphia 76ers star's injury report (December 30, 2024)

The Philadelphia 76ers star Joel Embiid is listed as “questionable” on the team’s injury report.Joel Embiid and the Philadelphia 76ers head to Portland on Monday night, looking to maintain their perfect record on their current six-game road trip. The team's recent performance has been excellent. They won 9 of their last 12 games and this has significantly boosted their Eastern Conference playoff positioning.
The Sixers face the Trail Blazers at Moda Center with several key players' availability in question. Joel Embiid, who is nursing both a left foot sprain and a sinus fracture requiring a protective mask, remains questionable for Monday's matchup. The injuries occurred during warmups before the Christmas Day clash against the Boston Celtics.
Despite his questionable status, Embiid managed to show off his skills in Saturday's victory over the Utah Jazz, contributing 27 points to the team's success. If cleared for Monday's game, it would mark his longest streak of consecutive appearances this season.
Since returning from a seven-game absence on December 8, Embiid has showcased remarkable consistency. In the six games he's played over the last eight, he's averaged 24 points, 6 rebounds, and 4 assists, while maintaining impressive shooting percentages - 47% from the field and 38% from beyond the arc. He has also been effective on defence, averaging one steal and one block per game.

The injury report extends beyond Embiid, with Andre Drummond (left toe contusion) and Eric Gordon (oral surgery recovery) listed as questionable. The team will be without Jared McCain, who is recuperating from left knee meniscus surgery, and KJ Martin, sidelined with a left foot stress reaction.
The 10 p.m. ET game at Portland's Moda Center will be another important test for the surging Sixers. Their recent performance suggests a team finding its rhythm, particularly on the road, where they've shown remarkable resilience despite various injury challenges.
For fans following the team's progress, tonight’s game will be another indicator of the Sixers' championship aspirations, particularly if Embiid continues his strong return to form. His presence on the court, even while managing injuries, has been instrumental in the team's recent success.
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The Sixers' performance in Portland might influence their place in the highly competitive Eastern Conference and set the tone for the rest of their away games as the road trip progresses.