Philadelphia 76ers vs Charlotte Hornets (Image via Getty) Joel Embiid is expected to play against the Sacramento Kings. He is listed as probable with left knee injury management. That tag usually means the player is ready to play but the team is being careful with his workload.This is an important game for the Philadelphia 76ers. They are trying to stay in the top half of the Eastern Conference standings and cannot afford to drop games against teams near the bottom of the West.
Injury report for Sacramento Kings vs Philadelphia 76ers (January 29, 2026)
Philadelphia also lists two other key players: • Paul George – probable (left knee management) • Quentin Grimes – questionable (right ankle sprain)If Embiid and George both play, Philadelphia will have its main scoring options available.Sacramento could be short in the backcourt. Russell Westbrook and Malik Monk are both listed as questionable.
Joel Embiid’s recent numbers
In 26 games this season, Joel Embiid is averaging about: • 25.2 points • 7 rebounds • 3.7 assists • 1.1 blocksHe has been better in January. This month he is scoring around 28.3 points per game on 53.6 percent shooting. He has scored 30 or more points in four of his last five games. In the last win over the Milwaukee Bucks, he finished with 29 points and looked comfortable attacking the basket.
Why this matchup suits him
Philadelphia 76ers is around 25-21 and close to the play-in line. Sacramento is around 12-36 and has struggled on defense.The Kings allow a high number of points in the paint and rank near the bottom of the league in defensive rating. That plays into Joel Embiid’s strength around the rim and in the post. Betting markets have set his points line around 29.5, which shows expectations for another big scoring night.
Sacramento Kings vs Philadelphia 76ers Expected starting lineups (January 29, 2026)
Philadelphia 76ers projected starters: • PG – Tyrese Maxey • SG – VJ Edgecombe • SF – Paul George • PF – Kelly Oubre Jr. • C – Joel EmbiidSacramento Kings projected starters: • PG – Russell Westbrook (questionable) • SG – Malik Monk (questionable) • SF – DeMar DeRozan • PF – Precious Achiuwa • C – Domantas SabonisIf Westbrook or Monk sit out, Sacramento will rely even more on Sabonis and DeRozan for offense.
What to watch in the Sacramento Kings vs Philadelphia 76ers game
– Minutes: Philadelphia may limit Embiid’s time on the floor to manage his knee.- Fouls and free throws: Sacramento has to decide whether to play him straight up or send extra help and risk putting him on the free-throw line.- Scoring and rebounding bets: Because of his recent form and Sacramento’s weak interior defense, many expect strong numbers in both categories.Also read: Sacramento Kings vs Philadelphia 76ers injury report: Who’s playing, injured and questionable players, head-to-head records, team stats, and more (January 29, 2026)The latest report points to Joel Embiid playing. If he is on the court, Philadelphia 76ers have a clear advantage inside and a good chance to pick up a needed win.