Embiid Scratched Late, Nuggets Edge 76ers 111-105: A Tale of Surprises and Scrutiny
In a highly anticipated showdown between MVP candidates, the Denver Nuggets secured a hard-fought 111-105 victory over the Philadelphia 76ers on Saturday afternoon. However, the game was overshadowed by the late scratch of 76ers’ star center Joel Embiid just minutes before tip-off due to left knee soreness.
Embiid’s Late Scratch Raises Eyebrows
The absence of Embiid, the reigning NBA MVP, sent shockwaves through the Pepsi Center as fans and analysts alike questioned the circumstances surrounding his late withdrawal from the game. Embiid had undergone his customary pregame workout, but the team’s medical personnel expressed concerns about his movements, prompting the decision to sideline him for the contest.
This latest knee issue adds to Embiid’s recent injury woes, as he missed three games earlier this month with the same problem. The severity of the current injury remains unclear, with the team set to re-evaluate Embiid, Tyrese Maxey (ankle), and Tobias Harris (illness) on Sunday ahead of their upcoming road trip.
Potential NBA Investigation Looms
Embiid’s late scratch, coupled with his absence from the injury report prior to the game, has raised the possibility of an NBA investigation. Last season, the Miami Heat were fined $25,000 for a similar situation involving Jimmy Butler, who was scratched with a back issue after not being listed on the injury report. The league cited the team’s failure to comply with injury reporting policies as the reason for the fine.
Nuggets coach Michael Malone expressed his expectation of an investigation, emphasizing the importance of transparency in player availability. He acknowledged that Embiid had sustained a knee injury in their previous game against the Indiana Pacers but questioned the sudden change in his status from active to out.
Embiid’s Denver Woes Continue
Embiid’s absence marked the fourth consecutive season that he has missed a game in Denver, dating back to the 2020-21 season when he and Nikola Jokic began their annual battle for the league’s top individual honor. Injuries, including a meniscus injury, COVID-19, and a calf issue, have kept Embiid sidelined in previous encounters with the Nuggets.
The fans in Denver made their displeasure known throughout the game, chanting “Where’s Embiid at?” during the first quarter and showering him with boos when he appeared on the bench in the fourth quarter. 76ers coach Nick Nurse expressed his disappointment for the fans who were looking forward to seeing the star players in action.
Missed Games Impact MVP Eligibility
Embiid’s latest injury also has implications for his MVP eligibility. Under the new player participation rules implemented this season, players who play in fewer than 65 games are ineligible for various season-ending honors, including MVP and All-NBA. With 11 missed games already this season, Embiid can only afford to miss six more games if he wants to remain eligible for a second consecutive MVP award.
Starless 76ers Nearly Pull Off Upset
Despite the absence of their three key players, the 76ers put up a valiant effort, nearly pulling off an upset against the Nuggets. They led after three quarters and were tied midway through the fourth quarter before Denver, led by Jokic’s impressive performance, eventually pulled away for the win.
Jokic registered 26 points, 16 rebounds, and 7 assists, while Aaron Gordon added 20 points and Bones Hyland contributed 18 points off the bench for the Nuggets. James Harden led the scoring for the 76ers with 34 points, followed by Georges Niang’s 21 points and Shake Milton’s 19 points.
Malone Acknowledges Letdown
Malone acknowledged that his team experienced a letdown upon learning of Embiid’s absence just before the game, leading to a somewhat lackluster performance. He commended the 76ers for their outstanding play and admitted that the Nuggets were fortunate to escape with a victory.
Conclusion
The late scratch of Joel Embiid overshadowed what could have been an exciting matchup between two of the league’s top teams. The potential NBA investigation into Embiid’s absence adds another layer of intrigue to the story. As the 76ers embark on a five-game road trip, their ability to overcome adversity without their star players will be put to the test. Meanwhile, the Nuggets will look to build on their win as they continue to chase a high playoff seed in the Western Conference.