Philadelphia 76ers face tough challenge as Embiid and George sidelined against Magic
The Philadelphia 76ers will enter tonight’s matchup against the Orlando Magic without two of their star players, as veterans Joel Embiid and Paul George have both been ruled out due to injury. In a crucial game that could impact their early-season standings, the 76ers will look to their available guards, Tyrese Maxey and Jared McCain, to step up in this high-stakes contest.
Injury Report Overview
The injury report reveals significant absences for both teams:
Magic Injuries
Paolo Banchero: Out – Groin
Moritz Wagner: Out – Knee
Colin Castleton: Out – Hand (G League)
76ers Injuries
Tyrese Maxey: Available – Shoulder
Joel Embiid: Out – Knee
Paul George: Out – Ankle
Jared McCain: Available – Thumb
VJ Edgecombe: Out – Calf
Adem Bona: Out – Ankle
Kelly Oubre Jr.: Out – Knee
Game Details
The matchup is set for Thursday, November 25, at 8:00 p.m. EST at the Wells Fargo Center in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. Fans can tune in via Peacock/NBC for the live broadcast, or catch the action on the radio with FM 96.9 The Game and AM 740 WYGM in Orlando, along with 97.5 The Fanatic in Philadelphia.
Season Context
This contest marks the second of four regular-season meetings between the 76ers and the Magic. The previous encounter on October 27 saw the 76ers emerge victorious with a score of 136-124. Historically, the Magic have a strong track record against the 76ers, boasting an all-time record of 83-54, including a notable 47-21 advantage in home games.
Projected Starters
Here’s how the teams are expected to line up for the game:
Magic
G Jalen Suggs
G Desmond Bane
C Wendell Carter Jr.
F Franz Wagner
F Tristan da Silva
76ers
G Tyrese Maxey
G Quentin Grimes
C Ivica Zubac
F Justin Edwards
F Paul George
Betting Lines
According to FanDuel Sportsbook, the betting lines for the game are as follows:
Spread: Magic -1.5 (-112), 76ers +1.5 (-108)
Moneyline: Magic -126, 76ers +108
Total Points Scored: 227.5 (over -108, under -112)
Coach’s Perspective
Orlando Magic head coach Jamahl Mosley emphasized the importance of maintaining a defensive standard and leveraging the team’s depth. He noted, “That you can call on anybody’s number at any given time and they’re ready to play for you because it’s a long season. 82 games plus is a grind for a lot of these guys.” His comments underline the need for adaptability and readiness in the face of injuries.
As the 76ers prepare for this critical showdown, the absence of Embiid and George will require a collective effort from the team to secure a vital win against a formidable Magic squad.
