The Philadelphia 76ers expect star center Joel Embiid to play in Game 4 despite a right thumb injury, per The Athletic's Shams Charania.
One has to wonder just how much the 76ers will push Embiid to play in Saturday's contest. With a 3-0 series lead, it's perhaps possible that they could rest him in hopes of the center getting healthier. For now though, it seems likely the MVP candidate will play.
A win would give the Sixers a series sweep and more time for Embiid to heal. In three games, Embiid is averaging 27.7 points and 13.0 rebounds per contest, including a game-winning three-pointer in Game 3. Heading into the series, many thought the Raptors would give the Sixers a run for their money. While the games have been mostly close, the Sixers 3-0 series lead is all you need to know.
Embiid has been able to build off his incredible regular season in which he averaged 30.6 points and 11.7 rebounds per game. While his scoring averages are down by a measly three points, he's been more efficient and pulled down more rebounds. While closing out the series sooner rather than later is crucial, the Sixers also have to look ahead to the next series. This is important when evaluating their potential opponent and how much they need a healthy version of their best player.
If they do indeed advance, the Sixers will face the winner of the Heat-Hawks series. With the Heat up 2-0 in that series, the Heat seem to be the likely opponent.With a potential matchup with premier defender Bam Adebayo, the Sixers will need a healthier version of Embiid to advance far into the playoffs.