76ers Could Be Facing Bulls Without Joel Embiid

The Philadelphia 76ers (6-1) are looking to continue their undefeated streak at home against the Chicago Bulls (1-5), Monday night at 7:30 PM ET at Xfinity Mobile  Arena.

This is their first meeting of the season, and the two teams are moving in very different directions. Philadelphia is on a three-game winning streak while Chicago has lost its last four. When the two meet, the 76ers could be without a big-name player.

Here is the injury report for the 76ers-Bulls:

76ERS

Dominick Barlow - Out: Low Back Stress Reaction

Joel Embiid - Questionable: Right Foot Plantar Fascia Injury Management

Ariel Hukporti - Out: Right Achilles Tendon Rupture / Tear

BULLS

Tobe Awaka - Probable: Left Ankle Sprain

Nic Claxton - Doubtful: Left Hamstring Strain

Jalen Smith - Probable: Left Finger Sprain

Barlow and Embiid possibly being ruled out means another heavy dose of Adem Bona. The good thing is that LeBron James has been removed from the injury report, so that could bring a sigh of relief to the center position. Embiid having foot issues may be a major problem for the long run. This could be just a case of not wanting to aggravate a lingering issue and understanding the situation of an inferior opponent. Embiid will be missing his first back-to-back game of the season. 

The 76ers are going to have to rely on their guards to help them get through this game. They could be in for a fun game, as the Bulls have a hard time shooting, so the team could prepare for plenty of outlet passes and a heavy dose of fast-break opportunities. Having James back is the key to those very activities. As many have noticed, nearly all the centers are out for this team; it’s going to be a rough night inside the paint. 

These injuries may be heavy for the 76ers, but the Bulls are getting healthy at just the right time, having Smith and Awaka back in rotation. Claxton being out could add some of that relief to a center position in dire need of bodies. Having James and Dean Wade available could mean that they will be  used a considerable amount. 

Tyrese Maxey could be in for another big night with Embiid out again. The paint will be open, and it can allow for a layup clinic. The 76ers are going to be in for a potential trap game and will have to hope they don’t get off to another slow start, or this Bulls team could take advantage of just that.