Unfortunately for Joel Embiid, his run of bad luck in the NBA Playoffs has continued this year.
The 76ers star suffered a right knee injury in Game 3 of his team's first-round series against the Nets. He was unable to suit up for Game 4, but Philadelphia managed to complete the sweep without him.
Now, the concern is that Embiid's knee issue will prevent him from playing in Game 1 of the Eastern Conference Semifinals — and possibly beyond. Here are the latest updates on his status ahead of the matchup with the Celtics.
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What is Joel Embiid's injury?
ESPN's Ramona Shelburne reported that the injury has been diagnosed as a sprained right LCL. NBC Sports Philadelphia's John Clark noted that Embiid may wear a brace on that knee in future playoff games.
Source confirms Joel Embiid has a sprained LCL. He may have to wear a brace for the knee when he returns. There is some hope that he can play towards the beginning of the Sixers second round series but he will be playing through a knee injury@ramonashelburne was first pic.twitter.com/JxirjN0vjA
— John Clark (@JClarkNBCS) April 25, 2023
Latest news, updates on Joel Embiid's status for Game 1 vs. Celtics
Embiid has been ruled out for Game 1 against the Celtics, according to Sixers head coach Doc Rivers.
When asked about Embiid's status for Game 2, Rivers said, "We'll see moving forward," adding that Embiid has not yet done any running in practice.
Recovery time for LCL sprain
LCL sprains are given one of three grades: Grade 1 (damage to some ligament fibers), Grade 2 (damage to more ligament fibers) and Grade 3 (tear of knee ligament). The most severe LCL sprains may require surgery.
The recovery timeline for an LCL sprain can be four to six weeks, according to The University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, but that period may vary depending on the severity of the injury.
76ers vs. Celtics schedule
Here is the complete schedule for the second-round series between Philadelphia and Boston:
| Date | Game | Time (ET) | TV channel |
| May 1 | Game 1 | 7:30 p.m. | TNT |
| May 3 | Game 2 | 8 p.m. | TNT |
| May 5 | Game 3 | 7:30 p.m. | ESPN |
| May 7 | Game 4 | 3:30 p.m. | ESPN |
| May 9 | Game 5* | TBD | TNT |
| May 11 | Game 6* | TBD | ESPN |
| May 14 | Game 7* | TBD | TBD |
*If necessary
