The Philadelphia 76ers are set to begin the preseason with a matchup against the team that knocked them out of the playoffs last season, the Boston Celtics. Unfortunately, they’ll have to do so without the help of several big-name players.
According to the Philadelphia Inquirer’s Keith Pompey, the Sixers will be without Joel Embiid, James Harden, De’Anthony Melton, and Furkan Korkmaz in their opening preseason matchup.
Standing out is James Harden, who had his first opportunity to join the team in a game since his trade demand. While many may be quick to point to his absence as a sign of things to come, it’s important to remember the approach that was taken once he made it to training camp. The Sixers worked him in gradually, with Harden not even participating in full scrimmages until the final day of camp. It’s no surprise that he’s not participating this early.
With four preseason games ahead of the upcoming regular season, there will be an opportunity for everyone to make a preseason appearance.
