Bulls’ Markkanen out; ‘extreme fatigue’ cited

The Philadelphia 76ers know they have a tough task ahead of them against the Boston Celtics in the second round of the playoffs. But that task will be even tougher if Joel Embiid can’t play due a sprained right knee.

Sixers coach Doc Rivers gave an update on Embiid’s inactivity at Saturday’s practice before casting doubt on the potential MVP’s availability for Game 1 on Monday.

“There is no latest,” Rivers said. “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.”

Embiid missed Game 4 of the 76ers sweep of the Brooklyn Nets in the first round. That would give him 11 days off before facing the Celtics in Game 1. However, recovery times from a sprained LCL can vary greatly, and the Sixers haven’t said what grade of sprain Embiid is dealing with.

Miami Heat guard Tyler Herro traveled with the team on a three-game road trip. That has created some optimism that Herro is on the cusp of a return, possibly as soon as Friday night. The Heat play at the Houston Rockets on Friday before traveling to play the Indiana Pacers and Atlanta Hawks.

Herro has missed the last 20 games due to a right foot injury. Overall, Herro has played in only 36 games this season.

Miami will welcome the backcourt help, as the Heat are down to Terry Rozier III and Duncan Robinson as playing regular minutes at the guard position. Herro has averaged a career-high 20.8 points and 4.4 assists, along with 5.3 rebounds per game.