Joel Embiid to play for 76ers vs. Hornets on Saturday

Sixers star center's status confirmed for key Eastern Conference matchup

Mar. 28, 2026 at 4:19pm

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The Philadelphia 76ers will have star center Joel Embiid available for their Saturday night matchup against the Charlotte Hornets, a crucial game in the Eastern Conference playoff race. Embiid is not listed on the injury report, indicating he will play after missing time due to an oblique strain.

Why it matters

This game could have major implications for the Sixers and Hornets' playoff positioning in the East, as the teams are separated by just one game in the standings. Embiid's presence is crucial for the Sixers, as he is their best player and a dominant force in the paint.

The details

The Sixers and Hornets have split their first two meetings this season, so Saturday's game will decide the tiebreaker between the teams. Both squads are jockeying for position in the crowded Eastern Conference playoff picture, with the Sixers currently seventh and the Hornets eighth.

  • The Sixers and Hornets will meet on Saturday, March 28, 2026.

The players

Joel Embiid

The star center for the Philadelphia 76ers, who is returning from an oblique strain.

Charlotte Hornets

The NBA team that the 76ers will be facing on Saturday night, currently eighth in the Eastern Conference standings.

Philadelphia 76ers

The NBA team that Joel Embiid plays for, currently seventh in the Eastern Conference standings.

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What’s next

The outcome of Saturday's game between the 76ers and Hornets could have major implications for the Eastern Conference playoff race, as the teams are separated by just one game in the standings.

The takeaway

Joel Embiid's return to the lineup is a huge boost for the 76ers as they look to solidify their playoff positioning in the East. His presence gives the Sixers a significant advantage against the Hornets in this crucial late-season matchup.