The Philadelphia 76ers have started the 2023-24 season as they mean to go on. Under the leadership of new head coach Nick Nurse, the Sixers have quickly recovered from the James Harden fiasco, which hampered their preseason preparations. With the season almost reaching its halfway mark, the Sixers comfortably occupy the 3rd spot in Eastern Conference standings The Sixers exceptional performance could be attributed to the remarkably consistent Joel Embiid.

His MVP-caliber performances, coupled with Nick Nurse’s strategic brilliance, have transformed the Sixers. However, Embiid has suffered from nagging knee problems this season, which could jeopardize his MVP chances. But as the Sixers face the Denver Nuggets in their next match, Joel Embiid is expected to play in the game.

Embiid expected to play against the Nuggets

The game between the Sixers and the Nuggets is expected to tip off by 7:30 PM, Eastern Time at the Wells Fargo Center in Philadelphia. Nikola Jokić and Joel Embiid have battled it out for the MVP award for the past few years, and this season is no different. However, Embiid has missed 10 games this season due to knee soreness. He made a stunning comeback against the Rockets, as he dropped 41 points on his return and it seems like the good run will continue.

Before playing the game against the Rockets, Embiid missed three straight games. Nevertheless, Nick Nurse has stated that he expects Embiid to play for a highly significant clash with the Nuggets. However, the Sixers will miss the services of key players like De’Anthony Melton (back) and Robert Covington (knee) for tonight’s game.

The Nuggets also have to deal with a whole host of injury concerns. Jamal Murray (tibia), Michael Porter Jr. (knee) and Aaron Gordon (heel) have all been listed as questionable for the game against the Sixers.

Predicted Lineups: Sixers vs Nuggets

The Denver Nuggets would aim for a victory, but a trip to Philly will be a daunting task for the reigning champions. The Nuggets will be on the lookout for their third consecutive victory, which would further cement their position as one of the standout teams in the league. They could begin the game with Jamal Murray, Kentavious Caldwell-Pope, Michael Porter Jr., Aaron Gordon and Nikola Jokić.

Read More: Brotherly Bond Shines Bright as LeBron James’ Younger Son Bryce Enjoys U-Turn Decision With Scottie Pippen’s Son Justin

The Sixers will be buoyed by the return of Joel Embiid because, without Embiid, they have struggled to pick up wins on a consistent basis. In fact, the team holds a record of 3 wins and 7 losses when Embiid is sidelined. In a game of high stakes, the Sixers could start the game with Tyrese Maxey, Kelly Oubre Jr., Nicolas Batum, Tobias Harris and Joel Embiid.

Watch this Story: Throwback to 1982 When 19-Year-Old Michael Jordan Met “The King” Richard Petty

Who do you think will win this match-up between the titans? Let us know in the comments!