Is Joel Embiid Playing Today? (Latest Injury Updates and News for 76ers vs Celtics Game 2)

As the Philadelphia 76ers and Boston Celtics prepare for Game 2 of their second round playoff series on Wednesday, many basketball fans are curious to know whether Joel Embiid will play for the 76ers. Embiid, who was just named league MVP on Tuesday, has missed each of Philadelphia's last two games with a knee injury.

Joel Embiid Game 2 Injury Update

On Wednesday morning, NBA insider Shams Charania reported that Embiid is on track to suit up for Game 2.

This is great news for the 76ers, who already beat the Celtics in Game 1 on Monday without Embiid. Embiid was initially listed as doubtful for that contest before ultimately being ruled out after clearly favoring his good knee during shootarounds. That didn't stop Philly from winning its second straight game without him, however, pulling off a 119-115 upset at TD Garden.

Embiid initially suffered his right knee injury -- which was diagnosed as a Grade 1 LCL sprain -- during Game 3 of the first round series against the Brooklyn Nets on April 20. Now after nearly two weeks of rest, Embiid believes he's ready to return on Wednesday night, barring any setbacks.

The 29-year-old All-Star was voted league MVP this season after averaging 33.1 points, 10.2 rebounds and 4.2 assists for the 76ers. Even if Embiid's still not 100%, his presence in the paint should help Philadelphia as it tries to take a 2-0 lead in the series.

Embiid's injury news has already had a significant shift on the Game 2 odds at FanDuel Sportsbook. Whereas the 76ers were listed as 10-point underdogs on Tuesday night, the line has shifted to 7.5 points as of Wednesday morning. Embiid's return should have a considerable impact on the prop market as well, although FanDuel doesn't have any props listed for Embiid as of yet.

Basketball bettors may want to confirm Embiid's status prior to the game before placing any wagers, but it looks like he's going to play.

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Game odds refresh periodically and are subject to change.