Is Joel Embiid playing tonight vs the Atlanta Hawks? Latest update on the Philadelphia 76ers star’s injury report (February 19, 2026) | NBA News
Joel Embiid will not play for the Philadelphia 76ers against the Atlanta Hawks on February 19, 2026. The team has ruled him out as he continues to deal with a right knee issue along with soreness in his right shin that worsened during the All-Star break.This is a setback for Philadelphia as it tries to stay in the playoff race. Without Embiid, the team loses its main presence inside on both ends of the floor. That puts more pressure on the guards and wings to handle scoring and playmaking against an Atlanta team that plays at a fast pace.
Joel Embiid’s injury status vs Atlanta Hawks and recent games missed (February 19, 2026)
Joel Embiid felt discomfort in his shin while going through his knee management routine during the break. The issue required daily treatment and further checks, which led to the decision to keep him out of this game.He had already missed the final two games before the break. This adds to his limited availability this season. He has played 31 games so far, averaging 26.6 points and 7.5 rebounds. The team plans to evaluate him again before upcoming road games against New Orleans and Minnesota.
Philadelphia 76ers injury report and expected rotation (February 19, 2026)
Paul George is also unavailable. He is serving a suspension through March 25 after violating the league’s anti-drug policy. Before that, he was averaging 16 points and 5.1 rebounds.The rest of the roster is mostly available. Tyrese Maxey is expected to lead the offense. Kelly Oubre Jr., Quentin Grimes, and Kyle Lowry will handle backcourt and wing minutes. Andre Drummond is likely to take on a larger role in the paint. Younger players such as VJ Edgecombe, Adem Bona, and Johni Broome could also see time.
Hawks injury report and available players
Atlanta has a few minor issues in the frontcourt. Jonathan Kuminga is listed as questionable with a left knee bone bruise. N’Faly Dante is out with a knee injury.Most of the main rotation is available. Jalen Johnson has been productive with averages of 23 points and 10 rebounds. Onyeka Okongwu and Nickeil Alexander-Walker add scoring support.
What this means for the game
Without Joel Embiid, Philadelphia loses its main rim protector and post scorer. That could be a problem against a team like Atlanta that scores often in transition. The Hawks average 18 fast-break points per game, one of the highest marks in the league.Maxey has been playing well and is averaging 28.9 points in recent games, but the overall balance of the team changes without Embiid. Philadelphia 76ers scored 116.2 points per game, while Atlanta allows 118.6, so the game could come down to shot-making and pace.Also read: Atlanta Hawks vs Philadelphia 76ers injury report: Who’s playing, injured and questionable players, head-to-head records, team stats, and more (February 19, 2026)Both teams are near the bottom of the standings and dealing with absences. Atlanta comes in with some momentum after ending a losing streak, while Philadelphia will need to adjust again without its best player.
