Joel Embiid Out for 76ers Game 2 vs Knicks with Hip and Ankle Injury

Joel Embiid will miss the 76ers' second game against the Knicks. This is a big change after his struggles in Game 1.
By Newsroom | Basketball, NBA |

Joel Embiid of the Philadelphia 76ers will miss the second game of the Eastern Conference semifinals against the New York Knicks due to a combination of right hip soreness and a right ankle sprain. The announcement came on Wednesday, May 6, 2026, after the team's morning shootaround.

Embiid out for Game 2 due to multiple injuries - 1

The team's medical staff determined Embiid could not play following increased soreness in his ankle and hip, which apparently surfaced or worsened after Game 1. The star center had a notable struggle in the series opener, tallying 14 points on 3-of-11 shooting in the 76ers' decisive 137-98 loss. He was initially listed as probable on the injury report before being downgraded.

Embiid out for Game 2 due to multiple injuries - 2

The absence of Embiid forces the 76ers to find solutions in the paint. Reports suggest that Adem Bona and Andre Drummond are expected to absorb minutes at the center position. Both players saw action during Philadelphia's first-round series against the Boston Celtics. Drummond, for instance, averaged over 24 minutes per game during that stretch.

Read More: Luka Doncic unsure when he can play for Lakers due to hamstring

Embiid out for Game 2 due to multiple injuries - 3

This latest injury setback for Embiid adds to a history of availability issues. He missed the first three games of Philadelphia's opening-round series against the Boston Celtics following an emergency appendectomy at the end of the regular season. Despite this, he returned to play the final four games of that series, averaging 28.0 points, 9.0 rebounds, and 7.0 assists. His postseason averages for the current playoff run stand at 25.2 points, 8.0 rebounds, and 5.8 assists.

Embiid out for Game 2 due to multiple injuries - 4

The 76ers organization is accustomed to navigating games without their centerpiece, as evidenced by their ability to overcome a 3-1 deficit against the Celtics. However, the team's performance in Game 1, a blowout loss, indicates the significant impact Embiid's presence, or lack thereof, has on their offensive structure and overall effectiveness. With Embiid out, pressure will also fall on guards like Tyrese Maxey to carry a heavier offensive load.

Read More: Joel Embiid Out for Game 2 with Ankle and Hip Pain

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Why is Joel Embiid not playing in the 76ers vs Knicks Game 2 on May 7, 2026?
Joel Embiid has hip soreness and an ankle sprain. The team's doctors said he cannot play after his ankle and hip hurt more after Game 1.
Q: How does Joel Embiid's absence affect the 76ers against the Knicks?
The 76ers will play without their main player. Adem Bona and Andre Drummond will play more at center. Guards like Tyrese Maxey will need to score more points.
Q: What were Joel Embiid's stats in Game 1 against the Knicks?
In Game 1, Joel Embiid scored 14 points but only made 3 out of 11 shots. The 76ers lost that game by a lot, 137-98.
Q: Has Joel Embiid missed games before this season?
Yes, Joel Embiid missed the first three games of the first playoff round because he had surgery. He played in the other games and scored well.