Doc Rivers - Joel Embiid likely doubtful for G1 vs. Celtics - ESPN

CAMDEN, N.J. — Philadelphia 76ers coach Doc Rivers said Saturday afternoon that «if I was a betting man» superstar center Joel Embiid will be doubtful to play in «at least» Monday's Game 1 of the titanic Eastern Conference semifinal against the Boston Celtics.

«There is no latest,» Rivers said Saturday, following Philadelphia's practice here at its practice facility. «Obviously, the doctors looked at him, and he didn't do anything today.

»I'll say this, but if I was a betting man, I would probably say doubtful for at least Game 1. But we'll see."

When asked what it will take to get Embiid, who is dealing with a sprained LCL in his right knee that he suffered in Game 3 of Philadelphia's first round sweep of the Nets, back on the court, Rivers had a simple response.

«He has to get better,» Rivers said with a wry laugh.

Rivers added that Embiid was able to do «nothing» in practice.

«Nothing yet,» he said. «Just wasn't able to. And, obviously, we were hopeful for today.»

Embiid's injury happened nine days ago, and when the media was let into practice Saturday afternoon he — along with P.J. Tucker and others — were not on the court. Embiid sat out Game 4 against the Nets last week, meaning he will have an 11-day break between the last time he played and Game 1 of the East semifinals Monday night at Boston's TD Garden.

The update from Rivers, though, casts a pall over that game from Philadelphia's perspective. If the leading candidate to be named the NBA's Most Valuable Player is unable to play in Game 1, the 76ers will then shift their focus to him potentially returning Wednesday in Game 2.

In the meantime, the 76ers are preparing for multiple contingencies. If Embiid is unable to go in Game 1, reserve Paul Reed would likely