76ers Await Embiid's Return as Fans Anxiously Watch

Reigning MVP sidelined with oblique strain, team's playoff hopes hinge on his recovery

Mar. 14, 2026 at 6:55pm

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The Philadelphia 76ers are navigating a familiar challenge with star player Joel Embiid sidelined due to an oblique strain. Embiid, the reigning NBA MVP, has missed the last eight games, raising concerns about the team's playoff prospects. While there is cautious optimism about Embiid's potential return during an upcoming road trip, the 76ers and their fans remain anxious about his recovery timeline and the team's performance in his absence.

Why it matters

Embiid's dominance is crucial to the 76ers' success, as he is the focal point of their offense and a defensive anchor. Without him, the team has struggled to maintain its rhythm, putting their playoff positioning in jeopardy. The 76ers' ability to navigate this challenge and secure a postseason berth will have significant implications for the team's future and their fans' expectations.

The details

Head coach Nick Nurse revealed that Embiid participated in an on-court workout on Friday and is 'feeling better.' While a definitive return date remains uncertain, Nurse hasn't ruled out the possibility of Embiid rejoining the team during their upcoming road trip, which includes games against the Denver Nuggets, Sacramento Kings, and Utah Jazz. Prior to his current injury, Embiid showcased his dominance in a 130-119 victory over the New York Knicks on January 3, 2026, contributing 26 points and 10 rebounds.

  • Embiid has missed the last eight games due to the oblique strain.
  • Embiid participated in an on-court workout on Friday, March 13, 2026.

The players

Joel Embiid

The Philadelphia 76ers' star player and the reigning NBA MVP, who is currently sidelined with an oblique strain.

Nick Nurse

The head coach of the Philadelphia 76ers, who has provided updates on Embiid's recovery and potential return.

Tyrese Maxey

A key player for the 76ers who has stepped up in Embiid's absence.

VJ Edgecombe

A 76ers player who contributed 26 points in the team's victory over the Knicks prior to Embiid's injury.

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What they’re saying

“We must not let individuals continue to damage private property in San Francisco.”

— Robert Jenkins, San Francisco resident (San Francisco Chronicle)

What’s next

The 76ers face a challenging schedule in the coming weeks, including a road trip and home games against the Portland Trail Blazers and Oklahoma City Thunder. Navigating this stretch without Embiid will require a collective effort from the entire roster.

The takeaway

Embiid's absence is acutely felt by the 76ers, as he is the driving force behind their success on both ends of the court. The team's ability to weather this challenge and secure a playoff berth will be a true test of their resilience and depth, with players like Maxey and Edgecombe stepping up to fill the void left by their star player.