Last season, Joel Embiid brought back excitement that 76ers fans haven’t seen since Allen Iverson stepped on the floor. Not only does he embrace the young culture but the culture loves Embiid. Embiid has rapidly become a Philly fan favorite and nearly made the all-star team in a sensational rookie campaign that was cut short. Embiid averaged 20.2 points, 7.8 rebounds, 2.1 assists, and 2.5 blocks while shooting 46 percent from the field, 36 percent from 3 and 78 percent from the line while only averaging 25.4 minutes. Embiid performed great against big names including 25 against Karl Anthony towns, 25 vs Demarcus Cousins, and 22 points to go with 4 blocks in a game that included a classic block on King James.
This season, things will be even better. Embiid will finally be off of a minutes restriction and the Sixers team is better with more additions and more experience. Embiid is a player that will command double teams on a team with so many other young threats. Embiid had a historic 36 minute per rookie season with averages of 29.8 points 11.8 rebounds 1.8 assists and 3.7 blocks. But what will his numbers look like next season?
Scoring: Embiid scored 20 points a game in 25 minutes. Being off his restrictions says the dog is off the leash. Expect Embiid to dominate the post and command double teams. Embiid can shake you like a guard when driving on an opponent and is able to get to the foul line, hitting a percentage near the 80 percent mark that will only get better. The part of Embiid’s offensive game that’s even more amazing is how smooth and deadly his 3 point shot is and seeing recent practice workouts hints that his long range shot is getting even better.
Rebounding: Embiid averaged 7.8 rebounds last season in 25 minutes. With a minute’s increase, he is almost guaranteed to be a double figure rebounder. The rebounding aspect of his game will be another weapon for Philly, putting them in position to lead many fast breaks and control the tempo of the game.
Blocks: Embiid’s size and length coming out of college was intimidating, he showed how dangerous it could be last year. Embiid was able not only to affect the game on the offensive side, he changed the game on the defensive side making Philly one of the better defensive teams in the league when he was on the floor.
Assists: This part of Embiid’s game is the forgotten part that will improve also. Embiid had many great passes last season and with so many weapons around him now he will be able to use this effective skill of his. Embiid is a very effective passer out of double teams, showing has excellent vision on the drive. This will be a part of Embiid’s game that wil make people around him better.
2017-18 Predictions: 25.3 points 12.2 rebounds 3.3 blocks 3.4 assists
Mandatory Credit: John Geliebter-USA TODAY Sports
