76ers’ VJ Edgecombe sidelined for a minimum of one game due to back contusion
PHILADELPHIA — VJ Edgecombe will be unavailable for Wednesday’s matchup against Utah due to a low back bruise sustained by the 76ers’ standout rookie the previous night following a hard fall.
The Sixers indicated that Edgecombe will undergo further evaluation prior to Saturday’s game in Atlanta.
Edgecombe was fouled by San Antonio’s Carter Bryant during a 3-point attempt on Tuesday night and showed signs of discomfort as he was assisted by his teammates. He remained in the game and converted 2 of 3 free throws.
Trailing 78-53 at halftime, Edgecombe did not return to the court. He finished with six points.
The No. 3 overall pick in the draft, Edgecombe, who was named MVP of the 2026 Rising Stars game, is among three rookies in the NBA this season averaging at least 15.0 points, 5.0 rebounds, and 3.0 assists per game. He leads all rookies in steals (1.5), ranks third in scoring (15.3), is tied for third in assists (3.9), and is seventh in rebounds (5.5).
The 76ers will also be without Joel Embiid, who is sitting out the final game of a planned three-game rest due to a strained right oblique.
