Joel Embiid backup appears to suffer concerning injury in 76ers’ preseason opener vs. Knicks

October 6, 2026 · Yahoo Sports

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The Philadelphia 76ers might have some bad news coming after Joel Embiid’s backup Ariel Hukporti went down with a lower leg injury in the team’s preseason opener against the New York Knicks on Monday night.

Hukporti has been playing in the NBA since 2024, gearing up for his first year with the 76ers. After two seasons with the New York Knicks, playing a small role in their 2026 championship run, the young center decided to have a change of scenery by signing with Philadelphia.

Hukporti was getting ready for a big opportunity. He was on track for more minutes as Embiid would be in and out of the lineup to maintain his health, presenting a huge role for Hukporti.

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However, the first quarter of the preseason opener may have dented his hopes. After creating a quality assist, he suffered a lower leg injury that seems to be around the Achilles area.

“Did Ariel Hukporti just tear his Achilles?? He took a backwards step, no contact, and immediately went down and grabbed the Achilles,” reporter Tomer Azarly wrote.

“Ariel Hukporti left the game with a lower leg injury. After a negative step, he appeared to grab at his Achilles. A few plays before, he showed off his vision with this incredible pass. Unfortunate,” writer Domenic Cancelliere stated.

Ariel Hukporti left the game with a lower leg injury. After a negative step, he appeared to grab at his Achilles.
A few plays before, he showed off his vision with this incredible pass. Unfortunate. pic.twitter.com/p3L3K6I8CM
— Domenic Cancelliere (@dc3philly) October 5, 2026

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