Is Joel Embiid playing tonight vs the New Orleans Pelicans? Latest update on the Philadelphia 76ers star's injury report (February 21, 2026)

The Philadelphia 76ers will be without Joel Embiid when they play the New Orleans Pelicans on Saturday, February 21, 2026. The team has ruled him out due to right knee management and soreness in his right shin.This is his fourth straight missed game. He sat out the final few games before the All-Star break and has not returned yet. The team is being cautious, but there is still no clear timeline for when he will be back.

Joel Embiid's Injury status and recent impact (February 21, 2026)

Joel Embiid is officially listed as out with right knee injury management and right shin soreness.He has played 31 games this season and is averaging 26 points, 7 rebounds, 3.9 assists, and 1.1 blocks. His absence has affected the team’s results.

The Sixers are 1-6 in games he has missed since the start of 2026.Philadelphia comes into this game with a 30-25 record and is currently sixth in the Eastern Conference. They have lost three games in a row. Without Embiid, the team has struggled on both ends, especially inside.

Philadelphia 76ers Changes to the lineup

Nick Nurse has adjusted the rotation to deal with Embiid’s absence. Paul George has taken on a bigger role in the frontcourt along with Trendon Watford, Dalen Terry, and Andre Drummond.

Johni Broome and Adem Bona are also getting minutes at center.Tyrese Maxey is leading the backcourt, with support from VJ Edgecombe, Cameron Payne, and Quentin Grimes. The guards are handling more of the scoring and playmaking.Without a strong presence in the paint, the team has had trouble protecting the rim and controlling rebounds.

Pelicans’ approach for tonight's game vs 76ers (February 21, 2026)

New Orleans has a 15-42 record but still has players who can take advantage of this matchup.Zion Williamson and Dejounte Murray lead the offense. Jordan Poole, Trey Murphy III, and Yves Missi are also part of the rotation.With Embiid out, the Pelicans are likely to attack inside. Williamson’s drives and Murray’s pick-and-roll play will test the Sixers’ defense.

What could decide the 76ers vs Pelicans game tonight

Maxey’s role becomes more important without Embiid. He needs to score and create chances for others.The Sixers may continue with smaller lineups, using George at power forward and rotating centers like Drummond or Broome.

This helps spacing but can hurt them defensively.Rebounding and transition defense will matter. The team needs to limit second chances and fast breaks.

Joel Embiid's Final injury report for February 21

Also read: Philadelphia 76ers vs New Orleans Pelicans injury report: Who's playing, injured and questionable players, head-to-head records, team stats, and more (February 21, 2026)There are no other major injuries for Philadelphia. The main concern remains Embiid’s absence and how the team manages without him.