76ers Announce Joel Embiid Decision For Game 3 Vs. Celtics originally appeared on NESN. Add NESN as a Preferred Source by clicking here.After missing the first two games of the Philadelphia 76ers' first-round playoff series against the Boston Celtics, Joel Embiid was listed as doubtful for Game 3.On Friday, the 76ers officially ruled him out for Game 3 a few hours before tip-off, according to ESPN's Tim Bontemps."Joel Embiid has been ruled out for tonight’s game, per a team spokesperson.
Embiid has been working hard to return to play, including intensifying his on court work. He met with medical staff this afternoon and while doctors are pleased with his progress just two weeks removed from surgery, he has not yet been cleared to play," Bontemps wrote on X.Joel Embiid has been ruled out for tonight’s game, per a team spokesperson. Embiid has been working hard to return to play, including intensifying his on court work.
He met with medical staff this afternoon and while doctors are pleased with his progress just two weeks removed…— Tim Bontemps (@TimBontemps) April 24, 2026Embiid underwent an emergency appendectomy earlier this month and hasn't played since April 6. Philadelphia is hopeful that he'll be able to return at some point during the series, but it won't be on Friday.Accordingly, the Sixers will be shorthanded for their first home game of the series after splitting the first two games of the series in Boston. They were already significant home underdogs before Embiid was officially ruled out.His next chance to play will be in Game 4 on Sunday night, so fans of both teams will want to monitor his status over the weekend to see if he's cleared to suit up.More NBA: Guard Says Celtics 'Haven’t Even Game-Planned' For Joel Embiid Playing In Playoff Series