Joel Embiid is expected to be available when the Philadelphia 76ers face the New York Knicks on January 3, 2026, at Madison Square Garden. He is listed as probable due to right knee injury management, but his recent right ankle sprain no longer appears on the injury report. That change points to improved health as Philadelphia looks to build on recent wins.The matchup carries added attention because Embiid has not played at Madison Square Garden since the 2024 playoffs. With the Sixers finding some rhythm and Embiid logging steady minutes, Saturday night presents a chance for both the player and the team to measure where they stand entering the heart of the season.
Joel Embiid’s injury status heading into MSG on January 3 vs the New York Knicks
Joel Embiid has dealt with ongoing knee management throughout the season, the same issue that limited him for long stretches last year. Despite that, he has been able to stay on the floor recently, and Saturday would be his third game in five days.The removal of the ankle sprain from the report is a key development. It suggests the Sixers are more concerned with managing workload than reacting to a new setback. The team is expected to monitor his minutes, but there is confidence he will play.
Joel Embiid’s Recent form shows consistency
Across his last six games, Embiid is averaging 29.2 points, 8.0 rebounds, 3.8 assists, and 1.3 blocks in about 33 minutes per night. Those numbers reflect steady production rather than short bursts.Philadelphia has benefited from that stretch, snapping a three-game losing streak and winning back-to-back games. In a recent overtime victory, Embiid finished with 34 points and 10 rebounds, controlling the paint late.
Philadelphia 76ers injury report vs the Knicks
• Joel Embiid: Probable (right knee injury management) • Kelly Oubre Jr.: Out (left knee sprain), sidelined since mid-November • Trendon Watford: Out (left adductor strain), continuing his recovery from a late-November injuryThe Sixers enter the game with a relatively short injury list compared to earlier in the season.
Knicks’ situation and matchup context
New York is coming off a 111-99 loss to Atlanta, shooting 37.1 percent from the field. The Knicks are dealing with several question marks, including Karl-Anthony Towns (illness), Josh Hart (ankle), and Mitchell Robinson (knee).Also read: Philadelphia 76ers vs New York Knicks regular season game: Full injury report, who’s out, where to watch, and more (January 3, 2026)If New York’s frontcourt remains thin, Philadelphia could lean heavily on Embiid inside while Tyrese Maxey applies pressure on the perimeter. With Embiid likely available, the Sixers hold a clear advantage in the paint, setting up a meaningful test at Madison Square Garden.
