Sixers injury update: Joel Embiid (left shoulder sprain) reportedly ‘hopeful' to return Wednesday

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Updated, 2:30 p.m.

Joel Embiid is hopeful to return for the Sixers' game vs. the Pistons on Wednesday, according to The Athletic's Shams Charania

Embiid suffered a sprained left shoulder last Wednesday against the Cavaliers on a first-quarter collision with Ante Zizic. Last Thursday, a team spokesperson said that testing on Embiid's shoulder showed no significant structural damage. 

A team source confirmed on Friday to NBC Sports Philadelphia that Embiid has resumed on-court basketball activities and will be re-assessed on Monday. The Inquirer's Keith Pompey first reported Embiid would be re-evaluated Monday. 

The Sixers, who wrap up a four-game West Coast road trip on Saturday against the Warriors, have gone 2-2 since Embiid's injury. Ben Simmons (nerve impingement in lower back) has also been sidelined the past six games, while Josh Richardson (concussion protocol) has missed the last two.

The Sixers have attempted 37.8 three-pointers per game over the past four contests without Simmons and Embiid, making 45.7 percent. Al Horford has averaged 13.3 points, 8.5 rebounds and 6.0 assists during that stretch as the team's starting center. He was excellent in the Sixers' win Thursday night over the Kings, posting a plus-41.

With 19 regular-season games to go, the Sixers are fifth in the Eastern Conference, 2.5 games behind the Heat and a half-game ahead of the Pacers. They have the easiest remaining schedule in the NBA and 11 games left at home.

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