Sixers Get Ridiculous Fine For Joel Embiid Injury Reporting
The Philadelphia 76ers are being punished by the NBA once again.
By Cem Yolbulan
The Philadelphia 76ers finally received great news earlier this week when Joel Embiid returned from his injury absence against the Oklahoma City Thunder on Tuesday. He immediately made a massive impact, helping deliver two massive wins. This obviously gives a big boost to Sixers fans and the organization ahead of the playoffs.
However, the Sixers' never-ending battle with the league office showed its ugly face again. According to Shams Charania of The Athletic, the NBA fined Philadelphia $100,000 for violating the league rules on injury reporting.
Sixers News: Philadelphia Gets Fined For Joel Embiid Injury Reporting
The NBA has fined the Philadelphia 76ers for $100,000 due to violating injury reporting rules regarding Joel Embiid playing vs. Thunder on Tuesday.
— Shams Charania (@ShamsCharania) April 5, 2024
This ridiculous fine is the result of what transpired earlier this week. On Monday, it was announced that Embiid would have a chance to return against OKC. However, on Tuesday, he didn't attend the team's shootaround and was still listed as out on the official injury report that teams must release before each game.
An hour before the game, Embiid was upgraded to questionable and was cleared to play as a game-time decision.
According to the league rules, this constitutes a failure to accurately disclose an injury status. The $100,000 fine apparently takes into account the Sixers' history of prior violations.
A similar case occurred back in February when Embiid wasn't on the official injury report against the Nuggets in Denver. However, an hour or two before tip-off, he was ruled out, forcing the NBA to fine the Sixers $75,000.
The NBA wants to protect its fans and media affiliates by being transparent about its stars' availability. That is understandable.
However, teams and players also have to do what is best for them, especially when it involves a player like Embiid who requires constant load management, rest, and injury prevention measures. It is unreasonable to expect perfect injury reporting at all times.
Embiid's return has pushed the Sixers' odds of winning the Eastern Conference to new heights. On FanDuel Sportsbook, they currently have the third-best odds (+950) to make the NBA Finals. Head over there now to claim your $200 in bonus bets after your first winning wager.
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