The Philadelphia 76ers are heading into a pivotal Eastern Conference semi-finals matchup against the New York Knicks on Monday night, but they may have to do it without their superstar center. Joel Embiid has been downgraded to "probable" on the team's injury report due to a right hip contusion, casting a shadow over what promises to be an electrifying series opener.

This news comes on the heels of a grueling Game 7 victory over the Boston Celtics on Saturday night, where the Sixers battled through a physical 109-100 win. The short turnaround—just two days between games—adds an extra layer of intrigue, especially considering the heavy minutes logged by key players. Tyrese Maxey led the charge with over 45 minutes on the court, while VJ Edgecombe, Paul George, and Embiid himself each played more than 39 minutes.

Embiid was a force in that win, posting 34 points, 12 rebounds, and six assists, while Maxey added 30 points of his own. But the concern now centers on Embiid's health. The good news for Philadelphia fans is that the injury is not related to the stitches he's been playing with or the knee that took a hard knock late in Game 7, which briefly caused him to limp. Still, any lingering issue for the reigning MVP candidate is enough to keep the basketball world on edge.

It's worth noting that Embiid has been listed as "probable" for the last two games of the Celtics series and still suited up, so there's reason for optimism. But with the Knicks' physical frontcourt waiting, the Sixers will need every bit of his presence in the paint and on the boards.

Tip-off for Game 1 is set for 8:00 p.m. EST on Monday night. As the series gets underway, all eyes will be on Embiid's status—and whether he can power through once again for a deep playoff run.