Philadelphia’s matchup against Los Angeles on Thursday faces significant injury concerns for both teams. Joel Embiid is listed as questionable with right knee issues and is under injury management. Paul George remains out due to a league suspension, while Kelly Oubre Jr. is available after recovering from a left knee injury. Jared McCain will not play as he is not with the team due to pending trade to the Oklahoma City Thunder.
The Lakers will also be missing key contributors. Jaxson Hayes is sidelined due to a league suspension, and Adou Thiero is out with a right MCL sprain.
Embiid is averaging 26.1 points, 7.4 rebounds, and 3.8 assists in 31 minutes per game, making his availability crucial for Philadelphia’s inside presence. Tyrese Maxey leads the team at 28.9 points per game.
On the Lakers’ side, Luka Doncic is posting 33.4 points, 7.9 rebounds, and 8.7 assists per game. Austin Reaves adds 26.1 points and 5.2 rebounds, while LeBron James averages 22 points and 5.7 rebounds in 33 minutes. Deandre Ayton is the top option at center with 13.5 points and 8.5 rebounds.
The 76ers enter the game with a five-game winning streak, having beaten the Warriors 113-94 and Clippers 128-113 in their last two outings.
The Lakers are 1-1 in their last two, defeating the Nets 125-109 but losing to the Knicks 112-100. In their previous meeting this season on December 7, Los Angeles edged Philadelphia 112-108.
Philadelphia is currently sixth in the Eastern Conference at 29-21, while the Lakers sit fifth in the West at 30-19.
