Embiid Out: Barlow Steps Up for 76ers Playoff Run

The Philadelphia 76ers are heading into their first-round playoff series against the Boston Celtics on Sunday without star player Joel Embiid. Embiid underwent an appendectomy on April 9 and will be sidelined for the opener. This is not the first time the Sixers have played without their key player, as they finished the regular season with a 21-23 record when Embiid was unavailable.

Player Dominick Barlow is expected to play a more significant role in Embiid's absence. Barlow, who signed a two-way deal before earning a standard contract, averaged 7.7 points and 4.8 rebounds in 71 games this past regular season. He expressed confidence in the team's ability to adapt, noting they have a reference point from games played without Embiid.

Barlow highlighted the need for decisive decision-making and attacking the paint effectively, especially since opposing teams may pack the defense tighter without Embiid drawing double teams. He emphasized understanding defensive closeouts and making reads from there. The Sixers will need Barlow, potentially alongside Andre Drummond and Adem Bona, to contribute significantly, particularly on the boards, to have a chance against the Celtics.