Is Joel Embiid playing tonight vs the Indiana Pacers? Latest update on the Philadelphia 76ers star's injury report (February 24, 2026)

Joel Embiid remains questionable for the Philadelphia 76ers’ game against the Indiana Pacers on February 24, 2026, at Gainbridge Fieldhouse. The game is scheduled to start at 7:00 PM ET.He has not played since February 7. The team has been managing his right knee, and he is also dealing with soreness in his right shin. With the Sixers at 31-26 and still fighting for playoff position, his availability is an important factor for this game.Joel Embiid’s current status is tied to ongoing management of his right knee. The shin soreness, which showed up again after the All-Star break, has added to the concern.The Sixers have taken a careful approach because of his past knee injuries, including meniscus issues. He has been going through treatment and has done some work on the court, but there is no final decision yet. Like several games this season, his status is expected to be decided close to tip-off.With Embiid out, the team has relied more on Tyrese Maxey and Quentin Grimes. Adem Bona and Trendon Watford have handled frontcourt minutes in his absence.Indiana is also dealing with multiple injuries. Bennedict Mathurin and Jarace Walker are expected to take on bigger roles.What it means for the gameEmbiid’s status affects how this game is expected to play out. The Sixers are favored by around 9.5 to 10 points, with the total set near 233.5.If he plays, Philadelphia gets a clear advantage inside against a short-handed Pacers frontcourt. If he sits, the offense will again run more through Maxey, with more responsibility on the guards.Also read: Philadelphia 76ers vs Indiana Pacers injury report: Who's playing, injured and questionable players, head-to-head records, team stats, and more (February 24, 2026)The final call on Embiid is likely to come shortly before the game starts.