The Philadelphia 76ers are heading home for a must-win Game 3 against the New York Knicks, but the big question on everyone's mind is the health of Joel Embiid. After a tough 108-102 loss in Game 2 on Wednesday night—where the reigning MVP was sidelined with a right ankle issue—the Sixers find themselves in an 0-2 series hole. It's a familiar spot for a team that knows how to rally, but the stakes couldn't be higher.

Embiid was initially listed as probable, but after shootaround, the team ruled him out. Without their anchor in the paint, Philadelphia's offense sputtered down the stretch, struggling to find easy buckets when it mattered most. Now, as the series shifts to the City of Brotherly Love for Friday's clash at Xfinity Mobile Arena, all eyes are on whether Embiid can suit up.

Sixers coach Nick Nurse shared that Embiid was visibly disappointed to miss Game 2, especially given the immense effort he's poured into returning from an appendectomy earlier this season. His teammate Paul George offered some insight into the big man's mindset after the loss. "Jo wanted to be out there with us. He wanted to play," George said. "I think he's kind of preparing himself now to do whatever he can to try to be available for us in Game 3. So, I think it's kind of around the clock, putting in as much work or doing whatever he needs to do or can do to try to be available, but understanding if he's not, we totally understand. We know that he's giving the effort to try to get ready for us."

Embiid's toughness is undeniable—he's battled through an appendectomy and a history of injuries just to be on the court for this team. While the Sixers have enough talent to compete without him, there's no denying that life is a lot easier when the big fella is dominating the paint. For fans and teammates alike, the hope is that he'll be ready to lead the charge in Game 3, turning the tide in what's shaping up to be a gritty series.