Sixers List Joel Embiid as Probable for Game 5 vs. Nets

After being listed on the injury report as 'Doubtful' and 'Questionable' throughout the entire first round of the NBA Playoffs, Sixers' center Joel Embiid is finally showing some promise a day before the next matchup. Earlier on Monday afternoon, Embiid wrapped up a practice, which he didn't look limited in - Then, he mentioned to the media that he likes to keep the Nets guessing about what his status on game night will be.

Well, they won't have to guess too much as they will likely assume that Embiid is going to show up and play during Game 5. He's not Doubtful or Questionable this time around. Instead, Embiid enters onto the early injury report as 'Probable.'

That's quite the change of pace for the Sixers who had to deal with Embiid's injury struggles throughout the first four games. Even an hour before tip-off, Sixers' head coach Brett Brown was unaware of whether his star center would play or not. But for the first time this series, he can probably assume that he will have Embiid available.

Embiid appeared in Saturday's game, where he played his playoff-high in minutes for the 2019 postseason with 32 total minutes on the floor. Clearly, Embiid was the difference-maker in the matchup as he dropped 31 points, with 16 rebounds, seven assists, and six blocks. The Sixers fared well without him during the only game he was missing, but his production upon his return proved just how much of a valuable part of the team he is.

The Sixers will look to try and advance to the second round of the playoffs with a win on Tuesday night. As they lead the Nets 3-1 in the series, they can wrap everything up with a win at home. Knowing that he will most likely play, Embiid likes the Sixers chances of eliminating Brooklyn. After all, he did mention the series was already over before leaving New York on Monday.

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