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2d ago

Thunder Rout Short-Handed 76ers as Embiid Sits With Ankle Sprain

Coach Nick Nurse said the ankle, not the managed knee, sidelined Joel Embiid, highlighting how his stop‑start availability is reshaping Philadelphia’s rotations.

OKLAHOMA CITY, OKLAHOMA - MARCH 19: Chet Holmgren #7 of the Oklahoma City Thunder drives to the basket around Justin Edwards #19 of the Philadelphia 76ers during the first quarter at Paycom Center on March 19, 2025 in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by William Purnell/Getty Images)
Oklahoma City's Shai Gilgeous-Alexander puts up a shot between three Philadelphia defenders in the Thunder's NBA victory over the 76ers
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Overview

  • Oklahoma City defeated Philadelphia 129-104, handing the 76ers a third straight loss during their five-game road swing.
  • Tyrese Maxey led the Sixers with 28 points, five assists and four steals, but the Thunder pulled away after halftime behind Chet Holmgren’s 29 and Shai Gilgeous-Alexander’s 27.
  • Embiid was ruled out with a right ankle sprain in addition to right-knee injury management, and Nurse described him as day-to-day on the knee while emphasizing the ankle caused this absence.
  • Philadelphia also sat Kelly Oubre Jr. and Trendon Watford, while Paul George played after being listed probable and finished with 12 points.
  • The defending champions moved to an NBA-best 26-5 and entered as heavy favorites (around -15.5), underscoring the challenge for the Sixers when their MVP center is unavailable.