The Philadelphia 76ers enter their NBA Cup matchup against the Brooklyn Nets tonight, November 28, 2025, carrying yet another major setback. Their franchise centerpiece, Joel Embiid remains unavailable due to ongoing right knee injury managementWhat was initially viewed as short-term soreness has now grown into a prolonged absence that is shaping the early stretch of Philadelphia’s season,For fans eager to see the reigning MVP regain form, the wait continues. Joel Embiid’s knee problems have limited him to only six appearances this year, and tonight marks his ninth consecutive missed game. Despite optimism floating around for a potential return, the organization has made it clear: long-term stability outweighs any temptation for a premature comeback, even in a high-stakes NBA Cup environment.
Joel Embiid’s Injury Report vs the Brooklyn Nets (November 28, 2025)
Joel Embiid’s knee issues trace back to last season and have resulted in the Sixers adopting a strict day-to-day approach. He has not stepped on the court since November 8. A brief spark emerged when he was upgraded to questionable for a recent contest against the Orlando Magic, but the team ultimately ruled him out, maintaining a pattern of late-stage decisions. Head coach Nick Nurse continues to express optimism, suggesting that Embiid could return as early as Sunday’s home game against the Atlanta Hawks. Still, the timing wasn’t suitable for tonight’s trip to Barclays Centre.
Philadelphia 76ers’ Injury Report vs the Brooklyn Nets (November 28, 2025)
Philadelphia 76ers enters tonight’s matchup at 9-8 with depth severely tested. Kelly Oubre Jr. remains out with a left knee sprain, marking his sixth straight absence. Trendon Watford is sidelined with a left adductor strain, and rookie VJ Edgecombe is missing his third game due to left calf injury management. Paul George, who has played only three games this season, is listed as questionable with a right ankle sprain. Meanwhile, rookie big man Adem Bona is probable as he works through a right ankle issue.The Sixers continue to rely on Jared McCain, who is playing with a thumb splint following recent surgery. Tyrese Maxey, averaging 32.2 points per game, once again steps in as the central offensive force – especially crucial against a Nets team vulnerable to three-point shooting. Maxey has hit four or more threes in 11 of his 17 appearances this season.
Brooklyn Nets’ Injury Report vs the Philadelphia 76ers (November 28, 2025)
The Nets, sitting at 3–14, are dealing with their own injury setbacks. Michael Porter Jr. is out with lower back tightness, Cam Thomas remains unavailable due to a hamstring issue, and Haywood Highsmith continues recovering from right knee surgery. Several other depth pieces are missing as well.With both teams shorthanded, tonight’s 7:30 pm ET NBA Cup final becomes a test of resilience for Philadelphia – particularly without Joel Embiid’s scoring and rim protection, which included averages of 19 points and 5 rebounds in his limited action this year. The absence of the anticipated Embiid-George-Maxey trio remains a growing frustration as the team searches for stability in a season filled with uncertainty.
