Joel Embiid is ruled out for 76ers crucial game against Warriors

TORONTO, ON - DECEMBER 05: Joel Embiid #21 of the Philadelphia 76ers looks on during their NBA game against the Toronto Raptors at Scotiabank Arena on December 5, 2018 in Toronto, Canada. 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 Tom Szczerbowski/Getty Images) /

Joel Embiid will miss another big matchup on Saturday when his Philadelphia 76ers will face the defending champion Golden State Warriors.

Joel Embiid will once again miss another crucial game for the Philadelphia 76ers.

According to NBC Sports Philadelphia, Embiid has been ruled out for their Saturday night tilt with the defending champion Golden State Warriors. If you’re keeping score at home, that is the fifth straight game Embiid has missed since the All-Star Break.

Embiid is currently recovering from left knee tendinitis, which is taking a bit longer to heal than he originally thought. His injury post the All-Star break has also brought questions as to why Embiid decided to participate in this year’s All-Star Game.

But that’s kind of a moot point right now. What’s important for Philly is that they get Embiid healthy and ready to go before the playoffs begin.

So far, the Sixers have held up well in Embiid’s absence. Outside of an ugly 130-115 home loss to the surging Portland Trail Blazers, the 76ers have won three of the four games without Embiid, mostly due to the emergence of their newest star, Tobias Harris.

Last night, Harris went off against the Oklahoma City Thunder, scoring 32 points in a road win for the 76ers. With Embiid out, the trade for Harris looks like the most important move new GM Elton Brand has made so far this season. Let’s not forget about the other Sixers stars, Jimmy Butler and Ben Simmons, who have stepped up their game with their big man out of action.

While the 76ers should have enough talent to run with the suddenly struggling Warriors, it won’t feel the same without Embiid; but, as the old saying goes, it’s better to have him healthy for the playoffs, than to rush him back for the regular season.