Celtics vs. 76ers Injury Report: Will Jayson Tatum & Joel Embiid Play Tonight?

Jayson Tatum and Joel Embiid (Photo by Imagn Images)

Celtics vs. 76ers Injury Report: Will Jayson Tatum & Joel Embiid Play Tonight?

Originally posted on Total Pro Sports | By Afshan Khan | Last updated Apr 24, 2026 2:10 PM ET

The Philadelphia 76ers faced a challenging start in their first-round playoff series against the Boston Celtics, missing their star player, Joel Embiid. The Celtics seized the opportunity, dominating Game 1 with a commanding 123-91 win, fueled by the stellar play of Jayson Tatum and Jaylen Brown, who together tallied 51 points.

But the 76ers bounced back in Game 2, proving they’re not to be underestimated. In the absence of Embiid, rookie sensation VJ Edgecombe took the spotlight, delivering an impressive performance with 30 points, 10 rebounds, and two assists. Tyrese Maxey also shone brightly, contributing 29 points, nine assists, and four rebounds. This dynamic duo led the team to a 111-97 triumph, leveling the series at 1-1.

As attention turns to Game 3, fans are speculating about which team will take the lead. Meanwhile, there is a noteworthy update regarding Embiid’s injury status on social media.

Injuries 4/24

PHI:
Joel Embiid – Doubtful

BOS:
None

LAL:
Austin Reaves – Questionable
Luka Doncic – Out

HOU:
Kevin Durant – Questionable
Fred VanVleet – Out
Steven Adams – Out

SAS:
Victor Wembanyama – Questionable

POR:
Damian Lillard – Out
— Underdog NBA (@UnderdogNBA) April 24, 2026

Embiid participated in parts of the 76ers’ practice today and is now listed as doubtful for Game 3. Meanwhile, the Celtics come in healthy, with no players on the injury report. Will Embiid’s potential return shift the momentum?

Nick Nurse Provides Update on Joel Embiid

On April 9, Embiid underwent an emergency appendectomy. Now, the question lingers: Will he be ready for Game 3 against the Celtics? While the star center remains doubtful, the uncertainty fuels anticipation. Recently, 76ers head coach Nick Nurse shared insights after Embiid participated in parts of practice.

“I think we’re going to know a lot more probably by the end of today where he is…He wants to play and we want him to play. I don’t know how close we are to that at this point, but I there’s some progress being made,” Nick said.

Nick Nurse on Joel Embiid, who participated in parts of today's practice.

"I think we're going to know a lot more probably by the end of today where he is…He wants to play and we want him to play. I don't know how close we are to that at this point, but I there's some progress… pic.twitter.com/yQYVuS3MPV
— PHLY Sixers (@PHLY_Sixers) April 23, 2026