The 76ers defeated the Magic 109-97 in an earlier play-in game to secure the East 7-seed, advancing despite Joel Embiid recovering from emergency appendix surgery.

The Philadelphia 76ers pulled off a stunning feat by beating the Orlando Magic 109-97 in a play-in game despite star center Joel Embiid still recovering from emergency appendix surgery. The 76ers secured the No. 7 seed in the Eastern Conference through grit and determination, showing the resilience that makes them dangerous in the playoffs.

With Embiid sidelined, other 76ers stepped up to the moment. The team's depth showed during the crucial matchup, and their defensive intensity kept the Magic at bay. This victory sends a clear message: Philadelphia is a legitimate threat in the postseason, even without their franchise centerpiece.

The 76ers will now face the Boston Celtics in the first round starting this weekend. While Embiid's status remains uncertain, the 76ers have proven they can win without him when necessary—a dangerous quality heading into a best-of-seven series against one of the league's elite teams.