The Philadelphia 76ers are staring down elimination, trailing 2-0 in their second-round playoff series against the New York Knicks. Game 3 tonight is a must-win, but their biggest question mark is also their biggest star: Joel Embiid.

Embiid is listed as questionable after sitting out Game 2, despite his eagerness to play. The seven-time All-Star is battling a right ankle sprain and right hip soreness—the latest setbacks in an injury-plagued season that saw him suit up for just 38 regular-season games. Over the last three years, he's managed only 96 appearances, and he's never hit the 70-game mark in a single campaign.

When Embiid has been on the court this postseason, his offense has been effective, but his defense has been a glaring issue. The Knicks exploited his limited mobility in a 137-98 blowout in Game 1, repeatedly attacking him in the paint. At 32 years old, his injury history is catching up, and his usual defensive dominance has faded.

Still, the 76ers need their star center to have any real shot at turning the series around. With tip-off approaching, all eyes are on Embiid's status—and whether he can give Philly a fighting chance.