LeBron James (sciatica) out Thursday vs. Raptors

Wade will get the starting nod with LeBron James sidelined. This will likely be a singular start for Wade, though the 76ers do have a back-to-back coming up on Sunday and Monday, so Wade could be in line for another start.

James, who struggled in Tuesday’s loss to the Celtics, is back on the injury report to manage his sciatica. With Joel Embiid (foot) also questionable, the 76ers could be without two starters on Thursday. If LeBron sits, Dean Wade and Kentavious Caldwell-Pope should see their roles expand.

While Embiid appeared to tweak something in his left foot/ankle during Tuesday’s loss to the Celtics, his right foot has been an issue for longer. If he can’t play on Thursday, the 76ers could move Dean Wade into the starting lineup, while Jabari Walker would take on more responsibilities.

James, who was inadvertently raked across the face by Paul George early in the fourth quarter, struggled against the Celtics. The good news for fantasy managers is that he committed just one turnover, but the 41-year-old shot the ball poorly. James, who entered Tuesday’s game shooting 25 percent from three, made just one of six three-point attempts. With the 76ers counting on Tyrese Maxey to be their lead scoring option, James’ ability to hit perimeter shots takes on added importance, and he’s struggling right now.

After scoring eight points in a poor showing against the Cavaliers on Friday, James benefited from facing one of the NBA’s worst defenses on Sunday. The 41-year-old forward shot well and finished with his second game with at least 20 points, five rebounds and five assists this season. The 76ers play three games next week with no back-to-backs, which should help James get his rest.

Embiid is on the 76ers’ injury report for plantar fascia injury management, but the probable tag suggests he’ll be available. If he can’t play, the 76ers may start without a center, with Dean Wade moving into the starting lineup.

With Jarrett Allen (knee) out, many fantasy managers may have expected a big night from Embiid. He didn’t come through, to say the least. Embiid missed all nine of his shots from the field, with six free throws separating him from a scoreless night. The rebounds and blocks were decent, but this was a night to forget for Embiid and those rostering him. But he wasn’t alone, as LeBron James (8/7/3/2/1) shot 3-of-12 from the field and committed six turnovers. They’ll look to bounce back on Sunday against the Bulls.

Bona’s absence could lead to some extra playing time for Jabari Walker behind Joel Embiid, though LeBron James could also log some minutes as backup center in small-ball lineups.

Bona is dealing with a cervical spine sprain that could keep him out against Cleveland. Jabari Walker could return to the rotation as the backup center, though this could also mean LeBron James spends some time at the five again.

Embiid will play after sitting out Saturday’s win over the Hornets. With LeBron also available, Dean Wade and Adem Bona will come off the bench after starting on Saturday.