NBA Injury Report: Joel Embiid questionable, Jaylen Brown probable and more updates on Bradley Beal and Robert Williams III | February 8, 2023
Newly named NBA All-Star Joel Embiid is questionable for the Philadelphia 76ers versus the Boston Celtics tonight. “The Process” has had the same designation over the previous six games due to a sore left foot but has played in each of them.
The 76ers had a two-day break, which should make Embiid’s appearance likely when Philly visits the TD Garden. Tonight’s matchup between the two Eastern powerhouses will be just their second this season, with Boston winning the season-opener last Oct. 18.
Despite the questionable status in his last five games, the soon-to-be seven-time NBA All-Star has been playing great. He is averaging 32.5 points on 50.0% shooting to go with 12.3 rebounds and 3.8 assists during the said stretch.
After struggling earlier in the season, the 76ers are now just three games behind the Boston Celtics for the best record in the East. If the NBA’s leading scorer plays, he could help the 76ers avenge their season-opening loss.
Jaylen Brown, the Boston Celtics’ dynamic shooting guard, is probable when they host the Philadelphia 76ers tonight. The newly-named NBA All-Star is dealing with a non-Covid related illness.
“JB” sat out last Monday’s game against the Detroit Pistons for the same reason. He has reportedly practiced with his teammates without restrictions, so he should be good to go tonight.
Jaylen Brown has been essential to the Boston Celtics’ success, yet again, this season. He is averaging a career-high 27.0 points, a career-best 7.1 rebounds, 3.2 assists and 1.1 steals in 47 games.
Barring any setbacks, the soon-to-be three-time NBA All-Star should be in the lineup tonight for the Celtics.
Bradley Beal: Left foot soreness; Injured since February 3, 2023
Bradley Beal has missed the Washington Wizards’ last two games due to left foot soreness. He looked ready to play last Monday against the Cleveland Cavaliers but was a late scratch after doing his pregame warmups.
The former NBA All-Star reportedly joined head coach Wes Unseld Jr.’s practice but has been designated questionable tonight versus the Charlotte Hornets. Beal is averaging 22.4 points, 3.5 rebounds and 5.1 assists in 31 games this season.
The Wizards badly need their best player to return to help the team snap a three-game losing streak. Next Saturday will be his next opportunity to play if he’s unavailable tonight.
Robert Williams III: Left ankle sprain; Injured since
Robert Williams III is probable for the Boston Celtics tonight versus the Philadelphia 76ers. Boston’s defensive anchor was spectacular in the Celtics’ 111-99 win over the Detroit Pistons last Monday.
One of the NBA’s best defenders showed his mettle on both ends of the floor, finishing with 15 points, 15 rebounds, two assists, two steals, and a block. Joe Mazzulla has inserted Williams into the starting lineup and is averaging 9.0 points, 9.0 rebounds, 2.1 assists, and 1.3 blocks.
If Joel Embiid, who is questionable due to left foot soreness, plays, Robert Williams III’s role will be crucial for the Boston Celtics. The reigning NBA Eastern Conference champs only hold a three-game advantage over the 76ers in the Eastern Conference standings.
Having Williams in the lineup significantly improves Boston’s chance of extending that lead.