Sixers to Be Without Key Starter in Return From All-Star Break

Joel Embiid will miss Thursday's game against the Atlanta Hawks due to right knee injury management and right shin soreness.

Published on Feb. 23, 2026

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The Philadelphia 76ers will be without star center Joel Embiid when they return from the NBA All-Star break to face the Atlanta Hawks on Thursday. Embiid reported soreness in his right shin after participating in a program to manage his right knee injury during the break. He will be re-evaluated ahead of the Sixers' back-to-back games this weekend.

Why it matters

Embiid's absence is a concern for the Sixers, who are looking to maintain their position in the Eastern Conference standings. However, the team has a comfortable lead over the Play-In tournament teams, and they have the most games left against openly tanking opponents, giving them some flexibility to be cautious with Embiid's recovery.

The details

After participating in a program to manage his right knee injury during the All-Star break, Embiid reported soreness in his right shin. He is engaged in on-court work and strength and conditioning, but the Sixers have ruled him out for Thursday's game against the Hawks. Embiid will be re-evaluated ahead of the team's back-to-back games this weekend.

  • Embiid will miss Thursday's home game against the Atlanta Hawks.
  • Embiid will be re-evaluated ahead of the Sixers' back-to-back this upcoming weekend.

The players

Joel Embiid

The Sixers' star center who is dealing with right knee injury management and right shin soreness.

Paul George

The Clippers player who remains out due to suspension and has 18 games left to serve.

Johni Broome

A Sixers player who is listed as 'doubtful' due to a G League assignment.

MarJon Beauchamp

A Sixers two-way player who is listed as 'doubtful' due to a G League assignment.

Jabari Walker

A Sixers player whose promotion to a standard NBA contract has not yet been announced but is expected to be finalized in the next 24 hours.

Cameron Payne

A newly-signed Sixers player who is expected to be available to make his re-debut in Philadelphia on Thursday.

Jonathan Kuminga

A Hawks player who remains out with a bone bruise in his left knee.

RayJ Dennis

A Hawks two-way player who is listed as 'doubtful' due to a G League assignment.

Caleb Houstan

A Hawks two-way player who is listed as 'doubtful' due to a G League assignment, but is expected to be converted to a standard NBA deal.

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What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

This case highlights growing concerns in the community about repeat offenders released on bail, raising questions about bail reform, public safety on SF streets, and if any special laws to govern autonomous vehicles in residential and commercial areas.