The Philadelphia 76ers’ postseason prospects took a hit on Friday when star centre Joel Embiid was diagnosed with an orbital fracture and concussion and was ruled out indefinitely, according to sources.
On Thursday, Embiid was injured near the end of the Sixers’ series-clinching drubbing of the Toronto Raptors.
After appearing to be smacked by a Pascal Siakam elbow as the Raptors’ star drove to the hoop, Embiid fled the court clutching his face.
According to ESPN and The Athletic, Embiid was concussed and suffered an orbital fracture near his right eye in the collision.
In 2018, Embiid suffered a similar injury to his left eye, which necessitated surgery and resulted in a three-week sabbatical. He eventually reappeared, wearing a mask to protect himself.
On Friday, the Sixers made no quick statement on the alleged injury.
Many consider Embiid to be the front-runner for the NBA MVP award this season, but he has already struggled with a ruptured ligament in his right thumb during the playoffs.
The injury occurred late in the fourth quarter, with the Sixers leading by 29 points.
Embiid had enraged Raptors supporters at the Scotiabank Arena moments before the altercation by celebrating a basket with an enthusiastic “aeroplane” celebration.
On Monday, the Sixers face top-seeded Miami in the Eastern Conference semi-finals.
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