The Philadelphia 76ers are bracing for the possibility of starting their first-round playoff series against the Charlotte Hornets without Joel Embiid due to appendicitis, according to ESPN’s Shams Charania. While his official status remains uncertain, Embiid is unlikely to play at the start, leaving increased responsibilities for Paul George and Tyrese Maxey. There is a chance Embiid could return later in the series as he recovers.