Philadelphia 76ers star Joel Embiid will be sidelined for Thursday night's game against Atlanta due to soreness in his right shin. Embiid reported the soreness during the All-Star break, an issue that arose while he was participating in a right knee injury management program. Following consultation with medical professionals, Embiid has been undergoing daily treatment, along with continuing on-court rehabilitation and strength and conditioning exercises. His condition will be re-evaluated before the team's upcoming road games on Saturday against New Orleans and Sunday versus Minnesota.

This season, Embiid has averaged an impressive 26.6 points across 31 games, playing without the minute restrictions that have impacted his performance in recent seasons. However, he had already missed three of the five games leading into the All-Star break due to right knee soreness. Embiid's absence is a significant concern for the 76ers, who have a poor record of 6 losses in their last 7 games when he is not playing.

Embiid has a well-documented history of injuries throughout his career, even predating his entry into the NBA. Before being drafted out of Kansas, he suffered a stress fracture in his right foot, which cost him his first two seasons. Since then, his injury list has included a bone bruise, a meniscus tear, a busted orbital bone, a sprained shoulder, tendinitis, torn ligaments, and even Bell's palsy. These recurring health issues limited him to just 19 games last year and 39 games the season prior.

Despite his extensive injury history, the 76ers demonstrated their long-term commitment to Embiid in 2024, signing him to a three-year, $193 million extension. This contract includes a player option for the 2028-29 season and is set to commence next season, underscoring the team's belief in their franchise player.