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Boston Celtics try to defend Philadelphia 76ers Joel Embiid (Image via Getty)
Joel Embiid’s status is still unclear as the Philadelphia 76ers get set to play the Chicago Bulls on March 25, 2026. The center is dealing with a right oblique strain and has not played since late February, leaving a gap in the team’s lineup over the past few weeks.There has been some progress in his recovery. After being listed as out in recent games, Embiid is now marked as questionable and could be a game-time call. He has taken part in workouts and shootarounds, which suggests he is close to returning, but there is no confirmation yet on whether he will play.
Joel Embiid’s injury timeline and recovery progress (March 25, 2026)
Joel Embiid last appeared on February 26, 2026, against the Miami Heat. He finished that game with 26 points and 11 rebounds before the injury forced him out.
Since then, he has missed 13 straight games. Current updates point to about a 50-50 chance of him being available against Chicago.Without him, Philadelphia has adjusted its frontcourt rotation. Andre Drummond and Adem Bona have handled minutes inside, while the team has had to find other scoring options without its main player.
Philadelphia 76ers injury report and roster situation (March 25, 2026)
The 76ers go into this game dealing with multiple injuries as they try to hold onto seventh place in the Eastern Conference with a 39-33 record.
| Player | Injury | Status | Est. Return |
| Joel Embiid | Right oblique strain | Questionable | Game-time decision |
| Tyrese Maxey | Right pinkie tendon | Out | Early April |
| Kelly Oubre Jr. | Left elbow sprain | Out | Mar 28 |
| Johni Broome | Right knee surgery | Out | Apr 1 |
| Quentin Grimes | Illness | Questionable | Game-time |
There is one positive update for Philadelphia. Paul George is back and can play without restrictions after his 25-game suspension. He joins Kyle Lowry and VJ Edgecombe, giving the team more options, especially if Embiid does not play.
What’s at stake in 76ers vs Bulls matchup (March 25, 2026)
The result of this game depends in part on Joel Embiid’s availability. If he plays, Philadelphia gets its main scoring option back and a strong presence inside, especially with Paul George also available.If he does not play, the 76ers will need to rely on their depth. Players like VJ Edgecombe, who has averaged 16.2 points in recent games, will need to continue producing. In that case, the team will look to stay competitive through a balanced approach.Also read: Chicago Bulls vs Philadelphia 76ers injury report: Who's playing, injured and questionable players, head-to-head records, team stats, and more (March 25, 2026)For Chicago, this is a chance to take advantage and finish the season series strong.



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