Philadelphia 76ers vs Charlotte Hornets (Image via Getty) Joel Embiid is expected to play when the Philadelphia 76ers host the New Orleans Pelicans on Saturday, January 31, 2026, at Wells Fargo Center. He is not listed on the official injury report, which usually means the team expects him to be available.Philadelphia will rely on its starting center to hold the frontcourt together. With the Pelicans missing key players, the matchup could favor the Sixers if Embiid plays his normal role.
Joel Embiid injury status and knee management vs New Orleans Pelicans (January 31, 2026)
Joel Embiid has been dealing with left knee injury management at times this season, but the team has not included him on the report for this game. That is typically a clear sign he is ready to play.He has performed at an MVP level since the start of the year while the team continues to manage his workload. Even with that caution, his production has remained consistent.
Philadelphia 76ers injury report vs New Orleans Pelicans (January 31, 2026)
Philadelphia 76ers enters the game with only a few health concerns. • Paul George is not on the injury report and is available. • Quentin Grimes is probable with a right ankle sprain. • MarJon Beauchamp is out with an ankle injury.The Pelicans will be without Dejounte Murray, who is recovering from a ruptured right Achilles tendon and does not have a return timeline. His absence leaves New Orleans with fewer options defensively, especially in the paint.
What to expect if Joel Embiid plays
If Embiid is on the floor, Philadelphia is likely to run offense through him near the basket. New Orleans has had trouble defending top centers, which could create scoring chances inside.He should also impact the game with rebounding and rim protection, areas where he has been productive in recent outings.The Sixers could still monitor his minutes. The team is finishing a three-game homestand and may want to avoid overworking him before a tougher stretch of games.
Why this game matters for the Philadelphia 76ers
This is a chance for Philadelphia 76ers to keep building momentum heading into February. Taking care of games against lower-ranked teams can help in the playoff race. For Embiid, every healthy appearance matters after past injury setbacks. Staying on the court will remain an important focus as the season progresses.His availability also affects expectations around the game. When Embiid plays, Philadelphia’s projected scoring usually rises, and the team becomes a stronger pick in spreads and player markets.Also read: Is Paul George playing tonight vs the New Orleans Pelicans? Latest update on the Philadelphia 76ers star’s injury report (January 31, 2026)Joel Embiid is expected to play against the Pelicans unless there is a late change before tipoff. If he suits up, Philadelphia should have its main interior presence on both ends of the floor.