Christmas Day status report on Joel Embiid, JJ Redick

Share

NEW YORK — Joel Embiid is questionable leading up to the Sixers' Christmas Day game against the Knicks at Madison Square Garden.

Embiid did not go through practice, held just about 24 hours before Monday’s noon start. He received treatment during that time and also put up shots after it concluded. Embiid played 22 minutes in Saturday’s loss to the Raptors after missing the previous three games because of back tightness.

JJ Redick is another game-day decision. The starting shooting guard is listed as questionable as well. He left last Tuesday’s matchup against the Kings because of right hamstring tightness and has not played since.

“It’s getting close,” Redick said. “We’ll see how it feels tomorrow. I’m trying to be smart, patient while also chomping at the bit a little bit.”

Justin Anderson took another step toward getting back on the court. Though he is not cleared to play Monday, he was a full participant in the practice for the first time since being sidelined by shin splints in his left leg in mid-November. He is targeting to return Thursday in Portland.

Anderson began experiencing the shin splints during the summer. He had treatment and was able to play, but the injury got worse during the Sixers' Los Angeles trip. He has missed the last 18 games and is eager to bring energy and shotmaking off the bench when he returns.

“Everything is good for me physically,” Anderson said. 

The Sixers (14-18) are looking to snap a five-game losing streak against the Knicks (17-15) in their first Christmas Day game since 2001.

Contact Us