Sixers Practice News: Health updates on Thybulle, Embiid; Burke’s contract now guaranteed

Courtesy of the boots on the ground at Sixers practice today, we have a handful of updates in advance of the team’s big home game Thursday night against the Boston Celtics.

First, some positive injury news, something we could always use more of in Philadelphia.

Matisse Thybulle has not played since December 21 against Washington, sitting out with a right knee sprain and bone bruise. There seems to be a chance Matisse could return to action against the Celtics. Philadelphia could certainly use the rookie to help defend Boston’s battalion of wings. Either way, it’s great that Thybulle is almost back to full health.

Now, for the less promising injury news, Joel Embiid’s dislocated finger could still be an issue.

As someone unaccustomed to seeing fingers jutting out sideways, I was shocked Embiid was able to return to the game last night. We’ll see what further testing reveals, but obviously, the most important thing is ensuring Joel doesn’t do anything to prolong any potential issues with the finger, not merely worry about a regular season game in January. Al Horford is a very good Plan B as a starting center, after all.

Finally, we have some contractual housekeeping news, as Trey Burke’s contract is now fully guaranteed through the rest of the season.

Only $810k of Burke’s $2M had been guaranteed previously. Given his recent emergence as a key member of the rotation off the bench, there was no way the Sixers were releasing Burke to save a million-plus. Secure that bag, Trey.