The Philadelphia 76ers have been one of the top teams in the Eastern Conference all season long, but they've been forced to play their last seven games without All-Star center Joel Embiid and that will continue on Friday at the Houston Rockets. Ben Simmons is also battling a stomach virus as the Rockets will try to avenge a January loss in Philadelphia.
Meanwhile, the top two seeds in the Western Conference will be doing battle when the Golden State Warriors host the Denver Nuggets. It's been a rough week for the defending champions as they've lost three of their last four games, including a 128-95 decision to the Boston Celtics earlier this week. On the other hand, the Nuggets are looking to make a run at the top seed and trail by just one game.
NBA schedule for Friday, March 8
*All times Eastern
Embiid out against the Rockets
The Philadelphia 76ers will be without their All-Star center Joel Embiid when they take on the Rockets in Houston on Friday night. Embiid hasn't suited up since the All-Star break due to left knee soreness. Though an MRI revealed no structural damage, both Embiid and the team are focusing on his long-term health.
