Embiid had surgery a week earlier and was ruled out for the final three games of the regular season, with his status for the Play-In up in the air until late Tuesday night.
In the win over the Orlando Magic, Tyrese Maxey logged 42 minutes and dropped 31 points with six assists, while rookie VJ Edgecombe added 19 points and 11 rebounds. The Sixers defeated the Magic 109-97 to close the regular season on a high note.
Maxey spoke about Embiid’s presence, calling it “Huge. Huge, man. Huge,” and recalling how a call from Kyle Lowry asking if Embiid could come set the tone. Embiid’s arrival and hug for his teammates reportedly boosted the Sixers’ spirits.
With Embiid sidelined, the Sixers are playoff-bound and will face the Boston Celtics in the first round, beginning on Sunday. The Magic, meanwhile, will host the Charlotte Hornets in another Play-In battle.
There is no official timeline for Embiid’s return, and he isn’t expected to suit up this week. For now, his presence on the bench is the team’s most impactful asset as they navigate the postseason journey.
