Nick Nurse 'really hopeful' that Joel Embiid will play in series vs. CelticsThis change came on the heels of Embiid participating in parts of practice with the Sixers on Thursday, which led to optimistic remarks from Sixers head coach Nick Nurse regarding a potential return from Embiid during the series with Boston. "We're, obviously, really hopeful, and I think he's really hopeful," Nurse said.

"He wants to play, and we want him to play. I don't know how close we are to that at this point, but I think there's some progress being made. Let's hope it keeps that way.

Keeps going that way."More: Philadelphia 76ers' star named finalist for major NBA awardEmbiid is two weeks removed from undergoing an emergency appendectomy, so the fact that we're even talking about a potential return to NBA basketball so quickly is a testament to Embiid's toughness and his desire to be out on the floor with his teammates.Embiid is no stranger when it comes to dealing with physical ailments at inopportune times, with the appendectomy being the latest in a long line. It remains to be seen when, or if, Embiid will be able to return this season, but the longer the Sixers can extend the series, the better chance there will be for Embiid to get back.

They took care of business in Game 2, let's see if they can do it again. More Philadelphia 76ers news: LeBron James compares Philadelphia 76ers to popular comic book villainSpurs starter gives 76ers major backhanded compliment for releasing himFormer Philadelphia 76ers head coach headed to Basketball Hall of FamePhiladelphia 76ers star named one of the purest scorers in NBA history