The Philadelphia 76ers have released their initial injury report for Saturday's home opener against the Charlotte Hornets, and it's not exactly what fans had hoped for. Paul George, who is still recovering from left knee surgery, will remain out of the lineup, but his return appears to be imminent.
George has been practicing with the team, which suggests he could make a season debut soon, possibly even in the near future. His expected return was reported by ESPN last week, stating that he would be back "shortly into the regular season." However, it's unclear when exactly he'll be ready to take the court.
On the other hand, Joel Embiid has been quietly making his way back onto the injury report after playing 20 minutes in the team's comeback win over the Boston Celtics on Wednesday night. While there was no indication that he would be listed, Embiid is not entirely out of commission and may start to see more action as the season progresses. However, it appears that he will be subject to a 20-minute restriction for his first few games back.
The other players who are currently out are Jared McCain, who suffered right thumb surgery recovery, and Trendon Watford, who is dealing with left hamstring tightness. Justin Edwards, meanwhile, has been listed as probable due to right rib soreness.
McCain's season debut will not be until next month, while Watford appears to be getting closer to returning to the court. His hamstring issues have been ongoing for at least a month, but he was spotted wearing a practice jersey and participating in some live action during the media availability after Friday's practice.
George has been practicing with the team, which suggests he could make a season debut soon, possibly even in the near future. His expected return was reported by ESPN last week, stating that he would be back "shortly into the regular season." However, it's unclear when exactly he'll be ready to take the court.
On the other hand, Joel Embiid has been quietly making his way back onto the injury report after playing 20 minutes in the team's comeback win over the Boston Celtics on Wednesday night. While there was no indication that he would be listed, Embiid is not entirely out of commission and may start to see more action as the season progresses. However, it appears that he will be subject to a 20-minute restriction for his first few games back.
The other players who are currently out are Jared McCain, who suffered right thumb surgery recovery, and Trendon Watford, who is dealing with left hamstring tightness. Justin Edwards, meanwhile, has been listed as probable due to right rib soreness.
McCain's season debut will not be until next month, while Watford appears to be getting closer to returning to the court. His hamstring issues have been ongoing for at least a month, but he was spotted wearing a practice jersey and participating in some live action during the media availability after Friday's practice.