Joel Embiid and LeBron James are both listed as questionable for the Philadelphia 76ers’ upcoming game against the Toronto Raptors, a crushing blow for a Sixers squad already reeling from two losses in their last three outings. This isn’t just about managing minutes, either, especially with Embiid’s struggles turning into a full-blown crisis.
Embiid’s Woes Go Deeper Than a Twisted Ankle
Embiid is once again battling plantar fasciitis in his right foot, a condition that’s clearly taking a toll. The guy even turned his left ankle in an awkward moment during their 123-101 loss to the Celtics on November 10, 2026. After the game, Embiid played it down, saying he “just turned it and is feeling good,” and there’s no additional injury designation for it, which is good news. But let’s be real, his performance since the plantar fasciitis popped up a week and a half ago has been rough. We’re talking about a star averaging just 13.3 points per game in his last three outings, where he’s shot a brutal 9-of-37 from the field. Nine-for-37! Plus, he’s looked noticeably worse on defense in that same period. Getting him off his feet for a bit might be smart, but it’s a tough call when the team has lost two of its last three and is playing its worst basketball since the start of the season.
LeBron’s Back and a Missing Frontcourt
And then there’s LeBron James. He’s also questionable, dealing with the lower back management that’s been on his report all season. What’s wild is this is the first time all season he’s appeared on the injury report for a game that isn’t a back-to-back. That tells you this back issue might be flaring up in a real way. If both Embiid and LeBron are out, the Sixers’ frontcourt is going to be completely decimated. Adem Bona is set to miss his fourth straight game with a cervical spine sprain, and there’s no update on him. Dominick Barlow is also still out, yet to make his season debut with a lower back stress reaction. The Sixers could be extremely shorthanded.
Adding to the drama, the Raptors themselves are playing Philadelphia on the second night of a back-to-back. Their injury report isn’t out yet, but Scottie Barnes has missed their last three games with a groin strain. And let’s not forget Kawhi Leonard, who’s been out since the second game of the season; he’s set to miss at least another week. So while the Sixers are hurting, the Raptors aren’t exactly at full strength either.
The Sixers desperately need to turn things around, but it won’t be easy if their two biggest stars can’t even suit up. After the Raptors game, they don’t play again until November 15, when they host Indiana. A few days off might do them good, but they need to survive this Toronto matchup first.
This article was created with AI assistance and published under Seattle On Tap’s editorial standards. See our Editorial Policy.
Originally reported by Liberty Ballers.
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