Is Joel Embiid playing tonight? 76ers vs. Celtics 2026 NBA Playoffs Game 5 injury report

The Philadelphia 76ers face the Boston Celtics in Game 5 of the NBA Playoffs on Tuesday night, and Joel Embiid once again sits at the center of the injury report. He is officially listed as probable due to post-appendectomy surgery recovery, keeping the 76ers star in focus as Philadelphia tries to keep its season alive.

The 76ers enter Game 5 trailing 3-1 in this NBA Playoffs series. The Celtics pushed them to the brink with a dominant 128-96 win in Game 4, a 32-point statement that left little room for comfort. Philadelphia now needs a response under the brightest pressure.

Embiid played in Game 4 and still produced, finishing with 26 points, 10 rebounds, and six assists. However, his efficiency told a different story. He shot just 9-of-21 from the field as Boston’s defense made every touch difficult. Still, the 76ers need his presence. Without him at full force, their margin becomes almost impossible.

Joel Embiid injury status vs. Celtics

The 76ers injury report lists Embiid as probable for Game 5 vs. the Celtics. Tyrese Maxey, meanwhile, is available despite a right finger tendon strain with a splint. That gives Philadelphia its two biggest offensive pieces entering a must-win game.

Boston, meanwhile, carries momentum and control. The Celtics eliminated the Magic 4-1 in last season’s first round and are now one win away from another second-round trip. Philadelphia last won a first-round series in the 2022-23 season, but that path now looks steep.
So when it comes to whether Joel Embiid is playing tonight vs. the Celtics, the answer is likely yes. He is probable. But for the 76ers, availability is only part of the question. Can Embiid deliver enough to extend this NBA Playoffs series?

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