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76ers Face New Frontcourt Injury Concern That Could Force LeBron James Into Bigger Role

The Philadelphia 76ers have spent the opening weeks of the season searching for dependable minutes behind Joel Embiid. Another injury could make that job even more difficult.Backup center Adem Bona is doubtful for Friday’s NBA Cup matchup against the Cleveland…

By Alder Almo · HEAVY

Published: Thursday, 5 November 2026 at 11:57 PM

Key Things to Know

Adem Bona is doubtful with a cervical spine sprain, which could force LeBron James to play center.
Bona suffered the neck injury during the Philadelphia 76ers' 112-106 victory over the Detroit Pistons.
James previously stated that playing center is not a sustainable role for him long-term.

The Story in 60 Seconds

Philadelphia 76ers backup center Adem Bona is listed as doubtful for Friday's NBA Cup game against the Cleveland Cavaliers due to a cervical spine sprain. Bona suffered the neck injury in Wednesday's win over the Detroit Pistons, intensifying frontcourt depth issues for head coach Nick Nurse.

With Dominick Barlow and Ariel Hukporti already sidelined, Bona's absence could force 41-year-old superstar LeBron James to play backup minutes at center behind Joel Embiid. Although James started at center on October 25, he previously warned reporters that playing the position is not a sustainable long-term role for him.

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76ers Face New Frontcourt Injury Concern That Could Force LeBron James Into Bigger Role

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