The Philadelphia 76ers will take the court without their superstar center, Joel Embiid, as they face the Brooklyn Nets tonight, November 2, 2025. The reigning MVP has been officially ruled out due to left knee injury management, marking his second missed game of the 2025-26 NBA season. This move is part of a calculated approach by the Sixers’ medical and coaching staff to prioritize Embiid’s long-term health and ensure he maintains peak form as the season progresses.
With the NBA season still in its early stages, the Sixers are taking no chances regarding the health of their franchise player. Joel Embiid’s knee has been a point of focus since last season, and the organization has implemented a load management plan to avoid aggravating the issue. His absence tonight underscores the team’s cautious philosophy - balancing short-term competitiveness with the ultimate goal of playoff readiness and championship contention.
Joel Embiid’s Recent Performances and Season Strategy
Joel Embiid’s recent return to form has been promising. In the Sixers’ previous matchup against the Boston Celtics, he played 25 minutes and contributed 20 points, six rebounds, and three assists. While there have been no reported setbacks, the team continues to monitor his workload carefully. The Sixers began the season by limiting Embiid’s minutes, and though the restriction has gradually eased, tonight’s rest is viewed as a preventative measure amid a busy schedule.
So far this season, Embiid is averaging 17.3 points and 22.3 minutes per game - a clear reflection of the team’s effort to manage his time on the floor while allowing him to build rhythm. With back-to-back games ahead following the Nets contest, the organization decided it was best to keep him sidelined to avoid potential strain on his left knee.
Philadelphia 76ers Faces Depth Challenge Without Star Power (November 2, 2025)
The Philadelphia 76ers will be significantly shorthanded against the struggling Brooklyn Nets, who enter the game winless at 0-5 and eager to secure their first victory. Joel Embiid’s absence will leave a noticeable gap in both offense and defense, putting additional pressure on the supporting cast to step up.
Adding to their challenges, the Sixers will also be without Paul George, who remains sidelined as he continues recovery from knee surgery. Rookie guard Jared McCain is out with a thumb injury, while forward Dominick Barlow will miss the game due to a right elbow laceration. Rookie Johni Broome is also unavailable, currently on assignment with the Delaware Blue Coats in the G-League.
Philadelphia 76ers vs Brooklyn Nets Game Details and Broadcast Information
The Sixers and Nets will tip off at 6 p.m. EST at the Barclays Center in Brooklyn. Fans can catch the game live on YES and NBC Sports Philadelphia, or stream it via NBA League Pass, Peacock, and Fubo TV.
Long-Term Outlook for Joel Embiid and the Sixers
While Joel Embiid’s absence may concern fans, the team insists this decision is strictly precautionary. The Sixers remain committed to managing their star’s workload carefully throughout the season. By ensuring he stays healthy and well-rested, Philadelphia 76ers aim to have Embiid performing at his dominant best when it matters most - during the playoff push.
Also read: Is Donovan Mitchell playing tonight vs the Atlanta Hawks? Latest update on the Cleveland Cavaliers star’s injury report (November 2, 2025)
Tonight’s game serves as a reminder of the organization’s focus on sustainability and long-term success, even as they navigate early-season challenges without their most valuable player.
With the NBA season still in its early stages, the Sixers are taking no chances regarding the health of their franchise player. Joel Embiid’s knee has been a point of focus since last season, and the organization has implemented a load management plan to avoid aggravating the issue. His absence tonight underscores the team’s cautious philosophy - balancing short-term competitiveness with the ultimate goal of playoff readiness and championship contention.
Joel Embiid’s Recent Performances and Season Strategy
Joel Embiid’s recent return to form has been promising. In the Sixers’ previous matchup against the Boston Celtics, he played 25 minutes and contributed 20 points, six rebounds, and three assists. While there have been no reported setbacks, the team continues to monitor his workload carefully. The Sixers began the season by limiting Embiid’s minutes, and though the restriction has gradually eased, tonight’s rest is viewed as a preventative measure amid a busy schedule.
Injuries 11/2
— Underdog NBA (@UnderdogNBA) November 2, 2025
NOP:
Kevon Looney - Questionable
Dejounte Murray - Out
OKC:
Chet Holmgren - Out
Jalen Williams - Out
Kenrich Williams - Out
Nikola Topic - Out
Thomas Sorber - Out
ATL:
Trae Young - Out
CLE:
Donovan Mitchell - Questionable
Jarrett Allen - Questionable
Sam Merrill…
So far this season, Embiid is averaging 17.3 points and 22.3 minutes per game - a clear reflection of the team’s effort to manage his time on the floor while allowing him to build rhythm. With back-to-back games ahead following the Nets contest, the organization decided it was best to keep him sidelined to avoid potential strain on his left knee.
Philadelphia 76ers Faces Depth Challenge Without Star Power (November 2, 2025)
The Philadelphia 76ers will be significantly shorthanded against the struggling Brooklyn Nets, who enter the game winless at 0-5 and eager to secure their first victory. Joel Embiid’s absence will leave a noticeable gap in both offense and defense, putting additional pressure on the supporting cast to step up.
Adding to their challenges, the Sixers will also be without Paul George, who remains sidelined as he continues recovery from knee surgery. Rookie guard Jared McCain is out with a thumb injury, while forward Dominick Barlow will miss the game due to a right elbow laceration. Rookie Johni Broome is also unavailable, currently on assignment with the Delaware Blue Coats in the G-League.
Philadelphia 76ers vs Brooklyn Nets Game Details and Broadcast Information
The Sixers and Nets will tip off at 6 p.m. EST at the Barclays Center in Brooklyn. Fans can catch the game live on YES and NBC Sports Philadelphia, or stream it via NBA League Pass, Peacock, and Fubo TV.
Long-Term Outlook for Joel Embiid and the Sixers
While Joel Embiid’s absence may concern fans, the team insists this decision is strictly precautionary. The Sixers remain committed to managing their star’s workload carefully throughout the season. By ensuring he stays healthy and well-rested, Philadelphia 76ers aim to have Embiid performing at his dominant best when it matters most - during the playoff push.
Also read: Is Donovan Mitchell playing tonight vs the Atlanta Hawks? Latest update on the Cleveland Cavaliers star’s injury report (November 2, 2025)
Tonight’s game serves as a reminder of the organization’s focus on sustainability and long-term success, even as they navigate early-season challenges without their most valuable player.
You may also like
'Dreams, tears, and triumph': Families of India's World Cup heroes celebrate with pride and joy
Bollywood superstar had 100 eggs thrown at him for a song, shot one of his biggest hit songs half-asleep, reveals choerographer
India women vs South Africa women yesterday match result: Kaur & Co beat Proteas women by 52 runs
Baliyatra 2025 to celebrate Odisha's language and literature: Cuttack Collector unveils grand plans
LDF urges EC to review decision on SIR in Kerala
