The Philadelphia 76ers will be without their star center Joel Embiid tonight when they face the Boston Celtics, as the reigning 2023 NBA MVP has been ruled out due to right knee soreness. The team announced the news ahead of the November 11, 2025, matchup, confirming that Embiid is currently being evaluated by team doctors. This marks his first unplanned absence of the season and adds a new layer of concern for a team already managing multiple key injuries early in the campaign.
Embiid has been on a monitored minutes plan this season following surgery on his left knee last spring. However, the team clarified that the current issue is unrelated, stemming instead from soreness in his right knee. With the 76ers holding a 6-4 record, the absence of their leader comes at a crucial time as they aim to maintain their strong start in a competitive Eastern Conference.
Joel Embiid’s Season and Current Injury Details vs Boston Celtics (November 11, 2025)
Joel Embiid last played in the 76ers’ win over the Toronto Raptors, where he posted 29 points in just 26 minutes before sitting out the following game against the Detroit Pistons for rest. His latest injury designation comes as a surprise since it affects his right knee - the opposite one from his recent medical history. Philadelphia’s medical staff will continue to assess him before determining his availability for upcoming games.
The Sixers will rely heavily on Andre Drummond and Adem Bona to step up at center in Embiid’s absence. Both players are expected to share minutes as the team adjusts its defensive and rebounding strategy. Meanwhile, Tyrese Maxey, who has emerged as the team’s offensive leader this season, will continue to shoulder a heavier scoring load as the focal point of the 76ers’ attack.
Joel Embiid’s Ongoing Recovery Journey
Joel Embiid’s injury history is well-documented. In January 2024, he suffered a torn lateral meniscus in his left knee, which sidelined him for a major portion of that season. After ongoing complications, he underwent arthroscopic surgery in April 2025 to address the lingering issues. Since his return, the 76ers have taken a cautious approach, limiting his minutes and managing his workload carefully. The right knee soreness is a new concern, separate from his earlier injuries, but the team remains optimistic that it’s not a long-term issue.
Impact on the 76ers’ Lineup and Strategy
With Joel Embiid out, Philadelphia’s frontcourt depth will be tested. Drummond and Bona are expected to rotate depending on matchups, while Maxey’s offensive workload continues to climb - he currently leads the NBA in minutes played. Paul George, who is still recovering from offseason knee surgery, remains unavailable, compounding the team’s injury challenges.
Also read: Boston Celtics vs Philadelphia 76ers regular season game: Full injury report, who's out, and more (November 11, 2025)
Celtics vs. 76ers: Rivalry Renewed
Tonight’s contest marks the third meeting between the 76ers and Celtics this season, with both earlier matchups decided by narrow margins. The October 31 game saw Boston edge out Philadelphia by just one point, setting the stage for another tense encounter. The Celtics, too, are dealing with setbacks, as Jayson Tatum has been ruled out for the season.
Embiid has been on a monitored minutes plan this season following surgery on his left knee last spring. However, the team clarified that the current issue is unrelated, stemming instead from soreness in his right knee. With the 76ers holding a 6-4 record, the absence of their leader comes at a crucial time as they aim to maintain their strong start in a competitive Eastern Conference.
Joel Embiid’s Season and Current Injury Details vs Boston Celtics (November 11, 2025)
Joel Embiid last played in the 76ers’ win over the Toronto Raptors, where he posted 29 points in just 26 minutes before sitting out the following game against the Detroit Pistons for rest. His latest injury designation comes as a surprise since it affects his right knee - the opposite one from his recent medical history. Philadelphia’s medical staff will continue to assess him before determining his availability for upcoming games.
Injuries 11/11
— Underdog NBA (@UnderdogNBA) November 11, 2025
MEM:
Ty Jerome - Out
Scotty Pippen Jr. - Out
Brandon Clarke - Out
Zach Edey - Out
NYK:
Mitchell Robinson - Questionable
TOR:
Sandro Mamukelashvili - Questionable
BKN:
Day'Ron Sharpe - Questionable
Cam Thomas - Out
Haywood Highsmith - Out
BOS:
Sam Hauser -…
The Sixers will rely heavily on Andre Drummond and Adem Bona to step up at center in Embiid’s absence. Both players are expected to share minutes as the team adjusts its defensive and rebounding strategy. Meanwhile, Tyrese Maxey, who has emerged as the team’s offensive leader this season, will continue to shoulder a heavier scoring load as the focal point of the 76ers’ attack.
Joel Embiid’s Ongoing Recovery Journey
Joel Embiid’s injury history is well-documented. In January 2024, he suffered a torn lateral meniscus in his left knee, which sidelined him for a major portion of that season. After ongoing complications, he underwent arthroscopic surgery in April 2025 to address the lingering issues. Since his return, the 76ers have taken a cautious approach, limiting his minutes and managing his workload carefully. The right knee soreness is a new concern, separate from his earlier injuries, but the team remains optimistic that it’s not a long-term issue.
Impact on the 76ers’ Lineup and Strategy
With Joel Embiid out, Philadelphia’s frontcourt depth will be tested. Drummond and Bona are expected to rotate depending on matchups, while Maxey’s offensive workload continues to climb - he currently leads the NBA in minutes played. Paul George, who is still recovering from offseason knee surgery, remains unavailable, compounding the team’s injury challenges.
Also read: Boston Celtics vs Philadelphia 76ers regular season game: Full injury report, who's out, and more (November 11, 2025)
Celtics vs. 76ers: Rivalry Renewed
Tonight’s contest marks the third meeting between the 76ers and Celtics this season, with both earlier matchups decided by narrow margins. The October 31 game saw Boston edge out Philadelphia by just one point, setting the stage for another tense encounter. The Celtics, too, are dealing with setbacks, as Jayson Tatum has been ruled out for the season.
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