The Philadelphia 76ers will be without their cornerstone player, Joel Embiid, for their high-profile clash against the Oklahoma City Thunder on Sunday, December 28, 2025. The team has officially ruled the reigning MVP out, dealing a significant blow to their lineup as they face the defending champions on the road.
Official Injury Status and Reasons
The decision to sideline Embiid stems from a combination of two specific lower-body issues. The primary reason is a right ankle sprain, which has been compounded by the ongoing management of a pre-existing right knee injury. This knee soreness has been a recurring theme this season, leading to multiple planned absences as part of a long-term health strategy.
Philadelphia's medical staff and management have adopted a notably cautious approach. Despite previous scans showing no major structural damage to the knee, the franchise is prioritizing long-term availability over short-term gains. Embiid's status was clarified early on Sunday, eliminating any possibility of a game-time decision and confirming the team's commitment to this protocol.
Full 76ers Injury Report for December 28
Embiid is not the only key player missing for the Sixers. The team's injury list presents a challenge for head coach Nick Nurse.
- Joel Embiid: Out (right ankle sprain, right knee injury management)
- Kelly Oubre Jr.: Out (left knee injury, no confirmed return date)
- Trendon Watford: Out (left adductor and hip strain)
In contrast, the Oklahoma City Thunder are in relatively better health. While Nikola Topic and Ousmane Dieng are out, and Ajay Mitchell is listed as questionable, the Thunder's core rotation remains largely intact and close to full strength.
Impact on the Game and Sixers' Strategy
Embiid's absence creates a massive void on both ends of the court for Philadelphia. The team loses its dominant scoring force in the paint and its premier rim protector. This fundamentally alters the matchup dynamics against a versatile and athletic Thunder squad.
Offensively, the burden of creation will fall heavily on the shoulders of guard Tyrese Maxey and forward Paul George. They will need to elevate their playmaking and scoring output to compensate. Defensively, the challenge is even steeper. Backup big men like Paul Reed and Mo Bamba will be tasked with containing drives and protecting the rim, a role for which Embiid is uniquely suited.
The game plan will likely shift towards perimeter-oriented play, relying on spacing and guard play. However, without Embiid's gravitational pull inside, the Thunder defense can apply more pressure on the Sixers' shooters. This game becomes a critical test of Philadelphia's depth and adaptability in the face of significant adversity.
