76ers' Nerlens Noel: Won't join team for trips to Memphis, New Orleans

Noel (knee) won't accompany the 76ers for their next two road games, set for Tuesday against the Grizzlies and Thursday against the Pelicans, Keith Pompey of the Philadelphia Inquirer reports.

Analysis:

Noel was able to do some five-on-zero activity during workouts last week with the 76ers and their D-League affiliate, the Delaware 87ers, but the organization hasn't issued a target date for his season debut. This latest news essentially rules Noel out through the weekend, but it's quite likely he'll miss more time beyond that while he eases his way back to full-contact activities. Given that Joel Embiid will rank ahead of him on the depth chart upon his return and a healthy Jahlil Okafor could also slot above him, Noel may not be able to pick up 20-plus minutes in most games upon returning to game action.