Key Takeaways

• James is listed as out with low back/siatica, the first absence of the season for the 41-year-old after joining the Sixers in the offseason, with the game against Milwaukee set for Saturday night.
• Through two games this season, James averaged 15.5 points, 9.5 rebounds, six assists, two steals and one block in about 33.5 minutes per game, though his shooting has been below efficient, at 37% from the field and 76.9% at the free-throw line.
• Philadelphia’s recent 114-106 home win over Cleveland featured a massive 29-point deficit overcome and highlighted James’ contribution in that notable comeback with 17 points, 10 rebounds, five assists, three steals and one block in 33 minutes.
• In addition to James, Dominick Barlow is out with a lower back stress reaction, Tacko Fall is sidelined with a left quadriceps strain, and Ariel Hukporti is out due to a right Achilles tendon rupture, tightening the Sixers’ depth for the Bucks game.
• Without one of its primary playmakers, Philadelphia will lean on Embiid, Maxey and Brown to shoulder extra offense, while second-year guard VJ Edgecombe could see an expanded role as the team pursues a third consecutive win against Milwaukee.
• The Bucks sit at 0-2, while the 76ers aim to maintain their undefeated start, with Saturday’s game tipping off at 7:30 p.m. ET on NBA TV.