The Philadelphia 76ers are set to tip off their 2025-26 NBA regular season with a high-stakes opener against the Boston Celtics. The biggest positive for Sixers fans is that superstar Joel Embiid is fully available and not listed on the injury report, marking his first meaningful competitive game since February 2025.
Embiid has appeared in the team’s preseason finale, showing no signs of discomfort five months after his left knee arthroscopic surgery. In his last preseason action, Embiid displayed excellent playmaking and scoring, signaling promising health and readiness to carry a heavy load especially with other key absences.
Meanwhile, three important players will be sidelined:
Paul George (recovering from left knee surgery)
Jared McCain (healing from right thumb injury)
Trendon Watford (dealing with left hamstring tightness)
The Sixers will rely heavily on Embiid’s dominant presence alongside supporting players like Tyrese Maxey. Embiid's role will be crucial as Paul George remains out, and McCain’s return is still uncertain.
The Celtics will counter with their own injury concerns, including Jayson Tatum sidelined and Jaylen Brown listed as questionable.
Sources: Philly Voice: Joel Embiid not listed on 76ers injury report for opening night
Bleacher Report: Joel Embiid's injury recovery optimism
Sportskeeda: Philadelphia 76ers injury report final update
NBA Official Sixers vs Celtics game preview
AP News & ESPN reports on 76ers injury status