The Philadelphia 76ers received a major boost ahead of their NBA Cup opener on October 31, 2025, as star center Joel Embiid has been confirmed to play against the Boston Celtics. This matchup serves as one of the marquee games in the in-season tournament, with both Eastern Conference contenders eager to make a statement early in the competition. For Philadelphia, Embiid’s availability brings renewed hope, especially with the Sixers aiming to preserve their perfect start to the 2025–26 season.
Boston enters the contest hungry for redemption after an uneven start to the year, while the Sixers look to maintain momentum. The spotlight, however, firmly rests on Embiid, whose health has been closely monitored since the preseason. His ability to perform - even under restricted minutes - could dictate the rhythm of the game and set the tone for the Sixers’ Cup campaign.
Joel Embiid Injury Status vs Boston Celtics (October 31, 2025)
Joel Embiid has been battling lingering knee issues that have limited his playing time in recent weeks. Nonetheless, the Philadelphia 76ers medical staff has cleared him for action, with his minutes expected to be managed carefully - approximately 20 minutes of floor time. This conservative approach aims to ensure that the reigning MVP-caliber big man remains effective without risking further strain.
This development is particularly encouraging for Philadelphia fans, as Embiid struggled in his last outing against Boston during the season opener, managing only four points. Since then, he has bounced back impressively, delivering strong scoring performances that reaffirm his leadership role. The Sixers’ offense, often revolving around Embiid’s inside dominance, will benefit immensely from his presence, even in a limited capacity.
Updated Philadelphia 76ers Lineup and Key Absences
The Philadelphia 76ers will field a balanced starting lineup featuring Tyrese Maxey at point guard, VJ Edgecombe at shooting guard, Justin Edwards at small forward, Kelly Oubre Jr. at power forward, and Joel Embiid anchoring the center position. While Joel Embiid’s return headlines the roster, Philadelphia continues to deal with notable absences. Both Paul George and rookie Jared McCain remain out - George is recovering from surgery, while McCain is sidelined due to lingering injury issues. Their absence will test the team’s depth and chemistry, especially against a formidable Celtics squad.
What to Expect from Tonight's Boston Celtics vs Philadelphia 76ers Matchup
Tonight’s contest tips off at 7:00 p.m. ET and will be broadcast live on Amazon Prime Video. The stakes are high - not just for Cup advancement, but for the psychological edge between two long-standing rivals. The Sixers will look to avenge their previous loss to Boston while proving that their early-season dominance is no fluke.
Joel Embiid acknowledged the frustrations of managing his knee but emphasized his commitment to contributing in any capacity. His return injects confidence into the Philadelphia locker room and gives the team a crucial interior advantage. With Embiid leading the charge, the Philadelphia 76ers hope to continue their unbeaten streak and send a strong message to the rest of the league.
Also read: Boston Celtics vs Philadelphia 76ers regular season injury report: Who's playing, who's out, and more (October 31, 2025)
In summary, Joel Embiid is officially playing tonight against the Boston Celtics. Despite limited minutes due to knee management, his presence alone strengthens the Sixers’ chances in a pivotal NBA Cup matchup that promises intensity, strategy, and star power.
Boston enters the contest hungry for redemption after an uneven start to the year, while the Sixers look to maintain momentum. The spotlight, however, firmly rests on Embiid, whose health has been closely monitored since the preseason. His ability to perform - even under restricted minutes - could dictate the rhythm of the game and set the tone for the Sixers’ Cup campaign.
Joel Embiid Injury Status vs Boston Celtics (October 31, 2025)
Joel Embiid has been battling lingering knee issues that have limited his playing time in recent weeks. Nonetheless, the Philadelphia 76ers medical staff has cleared him for action, with his minutes expected to be managed carefully - approximately 20 minutes of floor time. This conservative approach aims to ensure that the reigning MVP-caliber big man remains effective without risking further strain.
Injuries 10/31
— Underdog NBA (@UnderdogNBA) October 31, 2025
ATL:
Trae Young - Out
IND:
Taelon Peter - Questionable
Johnny Furphy - Questionable
Andrew Nembhard - Out
Bennedict Mathurin - Out
Tyrese Haliburton - Out
TJ McConnell - Out
Obi Toppin - Out
Kam Jones - Out
BOS:
Jayson Tatum - Out
PHI:
Paul George - Out
Jared…
This development is particularly encouraging for Philadelphia fans, as Embiid struggled in his last outing against Boston during the season opener, managing only four points. Since then, he has bounced back impressively, delivering strong scoring performances that reaffirm his leadership role. The Sixers’ offense, often revolving around Embiid’s inside dominance, will benefit immensely from his presence, even in a limited capacity.
Updated Philadelphia 76ers Lineup and Key Absences
The Philadelphia 76ers will field a balanced starting lineup featuring Tyrese Maxey at point guard, VJ Edgecombe at shooting guard, Justin Edwards at small forward, Kelly Oubre Jr. at power forward, and Joel Embiid anchoring the center position. While Joel Embiid’s return headlines the roster, Philadelphia continues to deal with notable absences. Both Paul George and rookie Jared McCain remain out - George is recovering from surgery, while McCain is sidelined due to lingering injury issues. Their absence will test the team’s depth and chemistry, especially against a formidable Celtics squad.
What to Expect from Tonight's Boston Celtics vs Philadelphia 76ers Matchup
Tonight’s contest tips off at 7:00 p.m. ET and will be broadcast live on Amazon Prime Video. The stakes are high - not just for Cup advancement, but for the psychological edge between two long-standing rivals. The Sixers will look to avenge their previous loss to Boston while proving that their early-season dominance is no fluke.
Joel Embiid acknowledged the frustrations of managing his knee but emphasized his commitment to contributing in any capacity. His return injects confidence into the Philadelphia locker room and gives the team a crucial interior advantage. With Embiid leading the charge, the Philadelphia 76ers hope to continue their unbeaten streak and send a strong message to the rest of the league.
Also read: Boston Celtics vs Philadelphia 76ers regular season injury report: Who's playing, who's out, and more (October 31, 2025)
In summary, Joel Embiid is officially playing tonight against the Boston Celtics. Despite limited minutes due to knee management, his presence alone strengthens the Sixers’ chances in a pivotal NBA Cup matchup that promises intensity, strategy, and star power.
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