Embiid to miss 76ers' game vs. Hawks due to sore shin

The star center will sit out Thursday's matchup as he continues to recover from the injury.

Published on Feb. 23, 2026

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Joel Embiid reported soreness in his right shin over the All-Star break and will miss the Philadelphia 76ers' game against the Atlanta Hawks on Thursday night. The Sixers said Embiid experienced the soreness while participating in a right knee injury management program over the break, and he will be evaluated again ahead of the team's back-to-back road games this weekend.

Why it matters

Embiid's health is crucial for the 76ers, as the team has struggled mightily without their star center on the floor. The Sixers have lost six of their last seven games in which Embiid doesn't play, underscoring his importance to the team's success.

The details

Following a consultation with doctors, Embiid has received daily treatment and has been progressing through on-court work and strength and conditioning. The 7-foot center has dealt with a variety of injuries since before he entered the NBA, including a stress fracture in his right foot, a bone bruise, a meniscus tear, a busted orbital bone, a sprained shoulder, tendinitis, and torn ligaments.

  • Embiid experienced the shin soreness over the All-Star break.
  • Embiid will miss the 76ers' game against the Hawks on Thursday, February 18, 2026.
  • Embiid will be evaluated again ahead of the Sixers' back-to-back road games on Saturday, February 20 and Sunday, February 21, 2026.

The players

Joel Embiid

The star center for the Philadelphia 76ers who has dealt with numerous injuries throughout his career.

Philadelphia 76ers

The NBA team that Embiid plays for, who have struggled without their star center on the floor.

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What’s next

Embiid will be evaluated again ahead of the Sixers' back-to-back road games this weekend to determine his status for those contests.

The takeaway

Embiid's health and availability is crucial for the 76ers' success, as the team has shown it struggles mightily without their star center on the floor. The team will need to carefully manage Embiid's injury recovery to ensure he can return to action as soon as possible.