Embiid Sidelined, George Doubtful as Green Returns for Sixers-Suns Clash
The Philadelphia 76ers are set to face the Phoenix Suns on Tuesday, January 20, at 7:00 p.m. ET. This matchup comes just a day after the Sixers defeated the Indiana Pacers. However, the team will be without their star player, Joel Embiid, who has been ruled out due to right ankle injury management.
Injury Updates Ahead of Sixers-Suns Clash
Embiid is yet to play a game on zero days’ rest this season, making his absence less surprising following his 33 minutes of action against the Pacers. Alongside Embiid, Paul George is questionable for the Suns due to a left knee issue. Phoenix center Mark Williams is also listed as questionable, dealing with a right knee concern.
Returning Player: Jalen Green
The Suns are expected to welcome back Jalen Green. He has been out since early November due to a hamstring injury. Green, a career 20-point scorer during his tenure with the Houston Rockets, has played only two games this season. His return would provide a significant boost to the Suns’ offense.
- Embiid: Out for right ankle injury management.
- Paul George: Questionable due to left knee injury management.
- Mark Williams: Questionable due to right knee injury management.
- Jalen Green: Expected to return after hamstring injury.
Matchup Context
This game marks the first of two meetings this season between the Sixers and Suns. The Suns have an overall record of 26-17 and are currently seventh in the Western Conference standings. They have won seven of their last ten games and are looking to gain ground in the playoff race.
Meanwhile, the Sixers are managing a challenging schedule with back-to-back games. They hold a record of 5-2 when playing on zero days of rest. Both teams will likely encounter fatigue as they head into this matchup, having recently played intense games the previous night.
Player Highlights
Devin Booker leads the Suns, averaging 25.3 points, 6.4 assists, and 4.1 rebounds in his 11th NBA season. Dillon Brooks also contributes significantly with an average of 20.9 points per game, showcasing strong three-point shooting abilities.
For Philadelphia, Tyrese Maxey had an impressive performance against the Pacers, scoring 29 points and earning his first All-Star starter nod. His growing offensive prowess and defensive skills are critical as the Sixers aim to maintain their strong season performance.
Fans can catch the game live at Xfinity Mobile Arena in Philadelphia or tune in via NBC Sports Philadelphia at 7:00 p.m. ET.