76ers C Joel Embiid (oblique) out at least 3 games

Philadelphia star center to miss time due to strained right oblique

Mar. 3, 2026 at 1:23am

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Philadelphia 76ers star center Joel Embiid will miss at least the next three games due to a strained right oblique, the team announced. Embiid, a seven-time All-Star, suffered the injury during the 76ers' win over the Miami Heat on Thursday. He will sit out Sunday's game against the Boston Celtics as well as back-to-back home games against the San Antonio Spurs and Utah Jazz.

Why it matters

Embiid is a key player for the 76ers, who are currently 33-26 on the season. The team has struggled without him in the lineup, going just 12-14 when he has been out. His absence will be a significant blow as the 76ers look to solidify their position in the Eastern Conference playoff race.

The details

An MRI on Saturday revealed the strained oblique for Embiid, who played 31 minutes and recorded 26 points and 11 rebounds in the win over Miami. The 31-year-old has a history of injuries, including being limited to just 19 games last season due to a left knee issue. He began this season on a minutes restriction due to the knee and has missed five games in February with knee and shin problems.

  • Embiid was injured during Philadelphia's 124-117 home win over the Miami Heat on Thursday, March 2, 2026.
  • Embiid will miss Sunday's game against the Boston Celtics on March 5, 2026.
  • Embiid will also miss back-to-back home games against the San Antonio Spurs on March 7, 2026 and the Utah Jazz on March 8, 2026.

The players

Joel Embiid

A 31-year-old seven-time NBA All-Star center for the Philadelphia 76ers who was named the league's Most Valuable Player for the 2022-23 season.

Philadelphia 76ers

An NBA team based in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania that Embiid has played for since being drafted 3rd overall in 2014.

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What’s next

The 76ers will re-evaluate Embiid's status after the three-game stretch he is set to miss.

The takeaway

Embiid's injury is a significant setback for the 76ers, who have struggled without their star center in the lineup this season. The team will need to find a way to stay competitive in the Eastern Conference playoff race during his absence.