Joel Embiid. Image via: Bill Streicher/USA TODAY Sports/Reuters The Philadelphia 76ers may be without Joel Embiid when they take on the Portland Trail Blazers on Monday night. The center is listed as questionable, and a final decision is expected closer to tip-off.Embiid is dealing with right knee injury management, the same concern the team has monitored since his return from last season’s knee issues. Philadelphia has been careful with his workload, especially during long stretches of games.
Joel Embiid’s Official injury report details vs Portland Trail Blazers (February 9, 2026)
The league’s injury report lists Joel Embiid as questionable for the Philadelphia Phillies vs Portland Trail Blazers matchup because of his right knee. Team updates reflect the same status as the Sixers finish a five-game trip through the Western Conference.This has been a familiar pattern. When Embiid is available, he plays major minutes, but the team avoids using him in back-to-back games and evaluates the knee regularly. Philadelphia has prioritized his long-term availability rather than pushing him into every regular-season contest, which is why his status often remains unsettled until game day.
Joel Embiid’s Recent performance and team impact
Embiid has been productive when on the floor. Over his last 18 games since late December, he has averaged 30.1 points, 8.2 rebounds, and 4.7 assists in 34.4 minutes per game. He is shooting 52.4% from the field and 37.5% from three-point range during that span.The Sixers are 13-5 in those games and currently sit inside the top six in the Eastern Conference. Securing home-court advantage remains a goal, so the staff must decide whether to use Embiid in the final game of the trip or give him extra rest before the team returns home.
What the questionable tag usually means
For Joel Embiid, questionable typically means the training staff will check the knee after shootaround and again before the game. If his mobility is normal and the discomfort is manageable, he usually plays. If there is swelling or stiffness, the team has shown a willingness to hold him out.The situation is worth watching because this is the last game of a five-game road stretch. Portland is also managing several injuries, which could factor into the decision. At the same time, Philadelphia has won six of its last seven games and may prefer to keep that run going before the All-Star break.
When will Embiid’s status will be confirmed
The clearest update should come about 90 minutes before tip-off, when the final injury report is released and team reporters share availability. Warmups can also offer a hint. If Embiid moves well during drills, the chances of him playing improve.If he does not play, Tobias Harris and Kelly Oubre Jr. are expected to see more time in the frontcourt. Tyrese Maxey and Quentin Grimes would likely take on a larger share of the scoring. If Embiid is cleared, the Philadelphia 76ers regain their primary scoring option and interior presence.Also read: Philadelphia 76ers vs Portland Trail Blazers injury report: Who’s playing, injured and questionable players, head-to-head records, team stats, and more (February 9, 2026)As of February 9, 2026, Joel Embiid has not been ruled out, but he is not guaranteed to play. He remains questionable because of right knee injury management, so the pregame update will determine his availability. His status will be a key factor as Philadelphia looks to close its road trip with a win.