76ers vs. Heat Game 3: Injury Report, Odds, and Predictions

Sixers
Philadelphia 76ers guard Tyrese Maxey (0) drives to the basket as Miami Heat center Bam Adebayo (13) defends, during the first half of Game 2 of an NBA basketball second-round playoff series, Wednesday, May 4, 2022, in Miami. (AP Photo/Marta Lavandier)

The Philadelphia 76ers welcome in Jimmy Butler and the Miami Heat for Game 3 of the second round of the NBA playoffs. While the expectation by some was that Sixers’ star Joel Embiid would be ready to play come tonight, those expectations have been tempered as it now seems that the team will, more likely than not, be without their franchise player.

Regardless the game goes on, and the 76ers still have a chance to pull off the win tonight even if Embiid does not play as long as they sure up the mistakes made in Games 1 and 2. It’s a tough ask, but nothing about the playoffs is easy. This is the moment where James Harden, Tyrese Maxey, Tobias Harris, and Doc Rivers all need to rise to the occasion.

  • When: Friday, May 6th at 7:00 PM
  • Where: The Center, Philadelphia, PA
  • How: ESPN, 97.5 FM The Fanatic

Injury Report:

76ers

  • Joel Embiid- OUT (concussion protocols)

As it stands at this moment, Sixers’ star Joel Embiid has been listed as OUT for Game 3 as he continues to recover from the concussion he received in Game 6 of the first round against the Raptors. While there remains a chance that Embiid’s status could be upgraded and that he could play, it doesn’t appear overly likely. Embiid could force himself on the court, but that may not be the wisest decision for his long-term health.

Heat

  • Kyle Lowry- Questionable (hamstring)
  • Tyler Herro- Questionable (ankle)
  • Caleb Martin- Questionable (ankle)
  • Max Strus- Questionable (hamstring)
  • PJ Tucker- Questionable (calf)
  • Gabe Vincent- Questionable (knee)

Once again, the Miami Heat have a lengthy injury report, and once again, the majority of the players on it are expected to play. Kyle Lowry may be the only exception, but despite his desire to play, the Heat are being rightfully careful with their veteran guard.

76ers/Heat Odds:

The Philadelphia 76ers were initially one and a half point favorites at home for tonight’s matchup. Well, the Joel Embiid news has certainly moved those numbers as the Sixers are now three-point underdogs at home. With Embiid’s status technically being in flux — despite currently being listed as out — the spread or the money may be too unsure but taking the over — o/u 210 — looks to be the move for tonight.

Prediction:

Rightfully so, this game’s outcome is heavily reliant on whether or not Joel Embiid plays. While it’s important to remember that even if he does play, he won’t be one hundred percent himself. Regardless, any Embiid is better than what the team is currently rolling with.

If Embiid plays, expect the Sixers to find a way to pull this game out at home. If he is unable to go, then the team could very well find themselves down 0-3 heading into Game 4. Unfortunately, that seems more likely than not in tonight’s case.