Reigning NBA MVP Joel Embiid will sit out the Philadelphia 76ers‘ first game of 2025 against the Sacramento Kings on Monday night, following his dominant 37-point performance in the team’s recent victory over Portland.
The decision comes as part of the Sixers’ strategic approach to managing their star center’s playing time, particularly with a crucial matchup against the Golden State Warriors looming on Tuesday. This back-to-back scheduling has prompted the team’s medical staff to take precautionary measures.
“I’m always ready to play back-to-backs,” Embiid said, maintaining his characteristic playful demeanor. “But you know me, I’m a troll. We’ll see what happens moving forward.”
The absence of Joel Embiid adds to the Sixers’ growing list of player availability concerns. KJ Martin and Jared McCain are confirmed to miss the game due to foot and knee injuries respectively. Meanwhile, veteran players Andre Drummond, Eric Gordon, and Kyle Lowry remain questionable for tonight’s contest.
Philadelphia 76ers’ Joel Embiid holds the ball during the second half of an NBA basketball game against the Charlotte Hornets, Friday, Dec. 20, 2024, in Philadelphia. (AP Photo/Matt Slocum)
This strategic rest follows Embiid’s earlier season comments about the team-driven nature of such decisions. This shows that the organization os committed to preserving their star player’s health throughout the grueling NBA schedule.
Why is Joel Embiid not playing tonight against the Sacramento Kings (January 1, 2025)
The timing of Embiid’s rest raises questions about the team’s priorities, suggesting they might be targeting the Warriors matchup as the more crucial game of this back-to-back set. This decision reflects the broader trend in the NBA of load management for star players, especially in consecutive game situations.
This rest day comes after Embiid’s impressive showing against the Trail Blazers, where he led the Sixers to a convincing 125-103 victory. His absence tonight will test the team’s depth and adaptability against a competitive Kings squad.
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When and where to watch the Philadelphia 76ers vs Sacramento Kings game tonight?
Fans can catch the action at Sacramento’s Golden 1 Center starting at 10:00 p.m. EST. The game will be broadcast on NBCS-CA and NBCS-PH, with streaming options available through NBA League Pass and Fubo TV, subject to regional restrictions.
