Philadelphia 76ers center Joel Embiid expects to play against the Utah Jazz today, despite being listed as a game-time decision, according to Jessica Camerato of NBC Sports Philly.
“My whole body's a little bit sore, but I think I should be playing tonight,” said Embiid, who is experiencing tightness in his left knee. “If I feel good, I'll play. It's not on them (the Sixers). I think it's more on me.”
The Process is coming off three strong outings, playing more than 32 minutes against the L.A. Clippers, the Los Angeles Lakers, and the Golden State Warriors — likely feeling the rigor of much longer outings in succession.
Embiid has yet to be cleared for back-to-backs, but noted he's been “set free, basically” in terms of minute restrictions after the Warriors game on Saturday.
“There's still a schedule in place,” said Embiid. “I'm not cleared for back-to-backs yet. I expect at some point this season to be playing back-to-backs.”
The Sixers face a dilemma with backup Richaun Holmes listed as a game-time decision as well with gastroenteritis — likely leaving the door open for another Jahlil Okafor sighting — his second of the young season.
Amir Johnson could see some minutes at center, with Dario Saric seeing a longer stint on the court for his troubles.
“In that case [without Embiid], we need to share the ball, we need to move a lot, we need to play a little bit faster,” Saric said. “Try to attack Utah in the fast break because they are a really good defensive team of the half court.”
Utah's frontcourt depth has seen its share of hits as well, still dealing with the absence of Rudy Gobert and Joe Johnson for the near future.
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