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Embiid misses Game 1 with knee sprain

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Philadelphia 76ers center Joel Embiid missed Game 1 against the Boston Celtics due to a sprained LCL in his right knee. The club announced his absence prior to tipoff.

The 76ers listed the six-time All-Star as doubtful ahead of Monday's series opener. Embiid hasn't played since suffering the knee injury in Game 3 of Philadelphia's first-round matchup versus the Brooklyn Nets.

Philly took Game 1 in stunning fashion thanks to 45 points from James Harden.

The Sixers are optimistic that Embiid will return to the lineup for Game 2, ESPN's Adrian Wojnarowski reports.

The big man underwent platelet-rich plasma (PRP) treatment on his knee last week and participated in parts of team practice Sunday, according to The Athletic's Shams Charania.

Embiid is no stranger to injuries in the playoffs. Last season, he dealt with a torn thumb ligament, orbital fracture, and concussion. The year prior, the MVP finalist sustained a torn meniscus.

Embiid averaged 20 points, 11.3 boards, four assists, and 2.3 blocks through his first three playoff games this year. He registered a career-high 33.1 points per contest during the regular season, becoming the first center since Bob McAdoo to capture back-to-back scoring titles.

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