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Joel Embiid on the Philadelphia 76ers
Every night the Philadelphia 76ers step on the court with Joel Embiid in the lineup, they believe they have a chance.
Despite the setbacks that Embiid deals with throughout the year, he consistently proves he’s one of the best at his position and one of the best in the game.
Whenever Embiid is out, it hurts the Sixers. Thursday’s absence on April 9, against the Houston Rockets, will especially hit the 76ers, as the team is in a must-win situation.
Mix that with the fact that Embiid’s history against Alperen Sengun is favorable, and the Sixers are in a tough spot going into the matchup.
Joel Embiid’s Absence vs Rockets Is A Missed Opportunity
GettyHOUSTON, TEXAS – JANUARY 28: Alperen Sengun #28 of the Houston Rockets reacts after a three-point basket in the first half against the San Antonio Spurs at Toyota Center on January 28, 2026 in Houston, Texas. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Tim Warner/Getty Images)
Being in two different conferences, the Sixers and the Rockets face each other just twice a year.
Since Alperen Sengun has been in the league, the veteran center has faced Joel Embiid four times.
Team record-wise, the Sixers are 3-1 in games between Embiid and Sengun. The averages on each side are notably lopsided.
When Sengun has played an Embiid-led Sixers team in the past, he averaged 13.0 points, 8.3 rebounds, and 3.8 assists. These days, Sengun is shining brighter than he did in the past, but his latest outing against the 76ers wasn’t strong.
In a January 22 game between the 76ers and the Rockets, Sengun posted 13 points, eight rebounds, and seven assists. He picked up three steals and two blocks.
Meanwhile, Embiid dominated the matchup with 32 points, 15 rebounds, one steal, and one block. He shot an efficient 52.6% from the field.
What’s Going On With Joel Embiid?
GettyPHILADELPHIA, PENNSYLVANIA – NOVEMBER 30: Joel Embiid #21 of the Philadelphia 76ers looks on during the second half against the Atlanta Hawks at Xfinity Mobile Arena on November 30, 2025 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Emilee Chinn/Getty Images)
Embiid has dealt with numerous setbacks since the All-Star break. He had knee soreness, shin soreness, and an oblique strain over the past two months.
Last week, Embiid battled an undisclosed illness, which forced an absence against the Washington Wizards last Wednesday.
While in Houston, Texas, on Thursday, Embiid was diagnosed with appendicitis. He will undergo surgery, and the team plans to provide further updates when appropriate.
It’s unclear what Embiid’s timeline could look like right now, but he is guaranteed to miss Thursday’s action, and his availability for postseason action comes into question.
The Sixers Will Roll Without Joel Embiid
GettyPHILADELPHIA, PENNSYLVANIA – OCTOBER 25: Joel Embiid #21 of the Philadelphia 76ers shoots a foul shot against the Charlotte Hornets at Xfinity Mobile Arena on October 25, 2025 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. The 76ers defeated the Hornets 125-121. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Mitchell Leff/Getty Images)
The Sixers are in a must-win scenario without Embiid on Thursday.
As they fight for a guaranteed playoff spot, one of two scenarios that must happen for a chance at the five or six seed is winning out.
The Rockets catch a break without Embiid.
Justin Grasso Justin Grasso is an NBA reporter, covering trending league news, transactions, injuries, and player developments. He is a credentialed journalist with nearly a decade of insider access. More about Justin Grasso
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