Joel Embiid injury update (Image via NBA) Joel Embiid is listed as probable for the Philadelphia 76ers’ game against the Dallas Mavericks on January 1, 2026. He is dealing with a right ankle sprain and routine right knee management, but all signs point to him being available.Philadelphia opens the new year on the road and needs its best player on the floor. Embiid’s status matters even more given how short-handed both teams are heading into this matchup.
Joel Embiid’s Injury Situation vs Dallas Mavericks (January 1, 2026)
The ankle issue is new, but it has not forced Joel Embiid to miss a game this season. The knee listing is part of an ongoing plan to manage his workload and avoid long-term problems. There were no issues reported after his last outing, and the team is comfortable with him playing again.This game does not come on a back-to-back, which reduces the chance of a late scratch.
Joel Embiid’s Strong Form Coming Into Dallas Mavericks
Embiid is coming off a heavy-minute performance against Memphis, where he logged 38 minutes and finished with 34 points, 10 rebounds, and eight assists in an overtime win. Over his last five games, he is averaging 30.6 points, 8.8 rebounds, and three assists.If he plays close to his normal minutes, Dallas will have a hard time matching his size and strength inside.
Philadelphia 76ers Injury Report for January 1, 2025
PlayerStatusInjury Joel Embiid Probable Right ankle sprain; right knee management Kelly Oubre Jr. Out Left knee sprain Trendon Watford Out Left adductor strainKelly Oubre Jr. and Trendon Watford remain out, which limits Philadelphia’s wing depth for this road game.
Dallas Mavericks Injuries and Matchup Context
Dallas continues to miss several rotation players. Kyrie Irving, Dereck Lively II, and Dante Exum are all sidelined following surgeries. That leaves the Mavericks thin, especially in the frontcourt.The Sixers enter the game at 17-14 and can sweep the season series after winning the earlier meeting 121-114. If Embiid plays, the offense will run through him inside, with Tyrese Maxey carrying the scoring load on the perimeter.Also read: Philadelphia 76ers vs Dallas Mavericks regular season game: Full injury report, who’s out, where to watch, and more (January 01, 2025)
What This Means for Philadelphia 76ers
With Joel Embiid available, Philadelphia 76ers have a clear edge in the paint and a better chance to start 2026 with a road win. If he were to sit unexpectedly, Andre Drummond would see extended minutes, putting more pressure on the Sixers’ rebounding and interior defense as tip-off approaches.