Joel Embiid Injury Update: 76ers Centre Sidelined with Knee Soreness
Philadelphia, January 12, 2026 – Philadelphia 76ers centre Joel Embiid remains sidelined due to ongoing knee soreness, raising concerns about his availability for the team’s matchup against the Toronto Raptors. Despite recent strong performances, Embiid’s injury management continues to limit his playing time.
Latest Injury Details
Embiid, who has battled recurring knee issues throughout his career, was listed as questionable for Monday’s game against the Raptors. Sources indicate he is dealing with left knee soreness, and the 76ers are taking a cautious approach. He missed the front end of a recent back-to-back set and has been limited to around 20-35 minutes per game when active. In his last appearance, Embiid contributed significantly, but the team prioritizes his long-term health over short-term gains.
Impact on the 76ers
With Embiid out, centres like Andre Drummond and Adem Bona have stepped up. Drummond started in Embiid’s absence during a recent loss to Toronto, while Tyrese Maxey and VJ Edgecombe have carried the offensive load. The 76ers, currently 21-16, face challenges in maintaining consistency without their star player.
Key Facts
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Current Status | Questionable for January 12 game vs. Raptors; day-to-day with left knee soreness. |
| Recent Performance | Averaged 27.3 points, 8.3 rebounds, 4.3 assists over last six games before latest absence. |
| Injury History | Multiple knee surgeries, including left knee scope in 2025; right knee sprain in 2023 playoffs. |
| Team Record Without Embiid | 76ers have struggled, with mixed results relying on reserves like Drummond and Edgecombe. |
Frequently Asked Questions
When will Joel Embiid return to action?
Embiid’s return depends on how his knee responds to treatment. The 76ers are monitoring him closely, and he may sit out back-to-back games for maintenance. No firm timeline has been provided.
How has Embiid’s absence affected the 76ers’ season?
Without Embiid, the team has leaned on young players like VJ Edgecombe and Tyrese Maxey. While they’ve won some games, their overall performance has been inconsistent, highlighting Embiid’s importance.
What are Embiid’s career injury stats?
Embiid has missed significant time due to knee issues, playing in only 39 games in 2023-24 and 19 in 2024-25. He has undergone multiple procedures but remains a dominant force when healthy.