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The Philadelphia 76ers just can’t catch a break. As if Joel Embiid’s season-ending injury wasn’t enough, they’ll now be without Paul George and Tyrese Maxey in tonight’s showdown against the Boston Celtics, per ESPN.
George is out with groin soreness, while Maxey remains sidelined with a lingering back issue. Add in the season-ending absences of Embiid, Jared McCain, and Eric Gordon, and the Sixers are seriously shorthanded.
What This Means for Philly
No Embiid. No George. No Maxey.
That’s the Sixers’ three best offensive weapons all out at the same time. Between them, they average a combined nearly 75 points per game — and without that firepower, Philly’s attack will look very different.
Expect the offense to run through Tobias Harris, who’s now the de facto No. 1 option. Kelly Oubre Jr., De’Anthony Melton, and Nic Batum will also need to step up big time if the Sixers want to have a shot against the loaded Celtics squad.
The Uphill Battle vs. Boston
The Celtics are one of the league’s best teams, and they’re fully healthy. With Jayson Tatum, Jaylen Brown, Kristaps Porziņģis, and Jrue Holiday, Boston’s depth and star power will make this a tough matchup for the depleted Sixers.
Philly’s best hope? Locking in on defense, slowing the game down, and getting big nights from their role players.
When Will George and Maxey Be Back?
While George’s groin soreness doesn’t sound serious, the Sixers will likely be cautious with his return. Maxey’s back issues have lingered longer than expected, and there’s still no clear timeline for his comeback.
As for the Sixers’ playoff hopes? They’re hanging on by a thread — and they’ll need their stars back and healthy soon if they want to stay in the mix.
Get well soon, PG and Maxey. Philly needs you.
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