Joel Embiid injury update (Image via NBA) Joel Embiid is listed as probable and is expected to play tonight when the Philadelphia 76ers face the Denver Nuggets on January 5, 2026, at Wells Fargo Center. After weeks of cautious injury handling, this is another step forward for Philadelphia as they try to settle into a more stable rhythm.The Sixers come into the game in better shape than they were earlier in the season. Embiid’s availability matters even more given Denver’s injury situation, which removes much of the resistance he would normally face in the paint.
Joel Embiid’s current health situation vs Denver Nuggets (Jan 5, 2026)
Joel Embiid is dealing with left knee injury management and right ankle soreness, but there has been no late change to his status. The knee issue has been ongoing and is tied to past surgeries and meniscus problems. The ankle soreness is newer, but it has not kept him off the floor.He has practiced, played three games in five days, and handled his workload without problems. The team is expected to keep his minutes in the low 30s, which has been enough for him to control games lately.
Recent stretch shows progress
Joel Embiid has now played four straight games, something that did not happen often early in the season. Over his last six games, he is averaging 29.2 points, 8.0 rebounds, 3.8 assists, and 1.3 blocks.One of the clearer signs of improvement came in a win over the Knicks, when he threw down his first dunk of the season. His movement has looked cleaner, and the offense has been more organized with him on the floor. Philadelphia has leaned on him consistently, and the results have followed.
Denver Nuggets’ injuries reshape the matchup
The Denver Nuggets will be without Nikola Jokic, who is sidelined with a left knee hyperextension and is expected to miss several weeks. Jonas Valanciunas is also out with a right calf strain. Aaron Gordon and Christian Braun remain unavailable due to hamstring and ankle injuries.Without Jokic, Denver lacks its usual interior anchor. That removes the headline matchup but leaves the Nuggets thin inside, especially against a healthy Embiid.Also read: Denver Nuggets vs Philadelphia 76ers regular season game: Full injury report, who’s out, and more (January 5, 2026)
What to expect in tonight’s Philadelphia 76ers vs Denver Nuggets
With Joel Embiid likely in the lineup, Philadelphia holds a clear edge. Tyrese Maxey should look to feed him early, forcing Denver to defend the paint with a short rotation. For the Sixers, this game is a chance to keep building momentum and show that their center can handle regular minutes again as the season moves forward.