Embiid, who is averaging 24.4 points and 7.9 rebounds, has already been ruled out against the Kings. George, who averages 17.1 points, 5.6 rebounds, 4.7 assists and 1.7 steals, is day-to-day with an extensor tendon injury in his left pinkie finger.

LOS ANGELES — Nothing good came from the historic 126-67 beating the Nets took from the Clippers; no positive from Wednesday night other than it was over by Thursday, like a bad dream. But one from which they’ll move on, starting Friday at the Lakers. It’ll hurt their pride but not their plan.

The Nets got a look at the team they hope to be one day during Sunday's blowout loss to the Thunder in Oklahoma City.

Joel Embiid appeared healthy and in good spirits at practice Monday, but the star big man will remain out for the Sixers’ next two games.

Dec 13, 2024; Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA; Indiana Pacers forward Pascal Siakam (43) passes the ball between Philadelphia 76ers forward Paul George (8) and center Joel Embiid (21) during the second quarter at Wells Fargo Center.

The Nets (14-33) sit just two games back of the Hornets (12-31) in the Cooper Flagg Sweepstakes, and if Ball doesn’t play Wednesday, it makes it more likely that the Nets will beat them. Charlotte could also lose more games going forward if Ball, their leading scorer, misses extended time.

adjusts his mask during the first half of an NBA basketball game against the Brooklyn Nets Saturday, Jan. 4, 2025, in New York. (AP Photo/Frank Franklin II) Philadelphia 76ers center Joel Embiid, center left, talks with forward Paul George during a timeout ...

Brooklyn had an issue playing against Oklahoma City's pace and offensive firepower, especially Shai Gilgeous-Alexander going off for 27 points, 10 rebounds, and four steals in just 29 minutes. Here are three Nets takeaways from Sunday's loss at the Thunder: