Sixers coach Nick Nurse acknowledged Embiid’s absence for Game 1, stating he is focused on preparing for Sunday and that nothing about Embiid’s status beyond game one has been determined. “I’m preparing for Sunday’s game, and I know he’s not playing in that one,” Nurse said.
Nurse added that the plan is to compete and execute as best as possible on Sunday, noting that any change in Embiid’s status could alter the series from the outset.
Embiid underwent the emergency procedure last week, and Philadelphia has not offered a specific return timeline, leaving Embiid’s availability for the remainder of the series unclear.
The development places greater emphasis on the Sixers’ depth and adjustments as they prepare to take on a Celtics squad led by a healthy, high-profile supporting cast, with Embiid’s recovery as the central backdrop for Game 1.
