Joel Embiid to Miss Seventh Straight Game with Oblique Strain
The Philadelphia 76ers will be without their star center Joel Embiid when they take on the Memphis Grizzlies on March 10, 2026. The team has officially ruled Embiid out as he continues to recover from a right oblique strain, marking his seventh consecutive missed game. Philadelphia's medical staff has decided not to rush the former MVP back to action and will continue to monitor his progress closely before clearing him for a return.
How Embiid Suffered the Injury and Current Recovery Status
Embiid sustained the right oblique strain on February 26, 2026, during a collision with Miami Heat rookie Kel'el Ware. An MRI conducted on February 28 confirmed the diagnosis, leading the 76ers to announce that Embiid would miss at least three games before a re-evaluation later in the week. Since then, Embiid has begun individual strength work but has not yet participated in full team activities. The cautious approach reflects the team's priority on his long-term health and performance.
Before this injury, Embiid had appeared in 33 games this season, posting impressive averages of 26 points, 7 rebounds, and 3.9 assists per game. His absence creates a significant void in Philadelphia's lineup, particularly in scoring and defensive presence.
Philadelphia 76ers Injury Report vs Memphis Grizzlies
The 76ers are dealing with multiple player absences heading into the matchup against Memphis. In addition to Joel Embiid being out with his oblique strain, guard Tyrese Maxey is sidelined with a finger sprain, and forward VJ Edgecombe is questionable due to a low back bruise. Paul George is out due to a league suspension, while Johni Broome is unavailable following a right knee meniscectomy procedure.
On a positive note, Kelly Oubre Jr. is available to play despite recent knee concerns. The frontcourt duties are expected to be handled by Andre Drummond and Adem Bona, with Drummond likely starting at center in Embiid's place.
Memphis Grizzlies Injury Report Before the Game
Memphis also enters the contest with a lengthy injury list. Key players such as Ty Jerome (calf), Taylor Hendricks (thumb), Cedric Coward (knee), Scotty Pippen Jr. (toe), Santi Aldama (knee), and Brandon Clarke (calf) are all ruled out. Additionally, Zach Edey is out for the season with an ankle injury, and Kentavious Caldwell-Pope is also sidelined for the season with a finger issue.
Star guard Ja Morant remains out with an elbow injury and is not expected to return until mid-March. With Morant unavailable, Jaren Jackson Jr. is anticipated to lead Memphis on defense if he receives clearance to play.
Impact of Embiid's Absence on the Matchup
Without Joel Embiid, the Philadelphia 76ers will need other players to step up and fill the gap in the frontcourt. Andre Drummond's rebounding prowess and Kelly Oubre Jr.'s scoring ability will be crucial for Philadelphia's success. Meanwhile, Memphis is also missing several regular contributors, including Morant and multiple frontcourt options, which could level the playing field.
The game may ultimately depend on role players from both teams. For Philadelphia, Quentin Grimes could see an expanded role, while for Memphis, Jaren Jackson Jr. may need to carry additional responsibility on both ends of the court. This matchup presents an opportunity for lesser-known players to make a significant impact in the absence of key stars.
