Need for Embiid
Throughout his career, Joel Embiid has averaged 23.9 points, 11.5 rebounds, 3.1 assists, and 1.8 blocks per game. Rivers has raved about the basketball IQ of both Ben Simmons and Joel Embiid in the early days of camp. He also talked about making the pick and roll a point of emphasis with this duo which is something that was not seen very often in the Brett Brown era. Embiid has appeared slimmer and reports are that he is in very good shape coming into camp this year which will make a difference, but traditionally Embiid has not proven to be effective in the P+R. Joel is a unique talent that it is essential to incorporate him the right way in order for this team to reach its full potential.
The spacing issues that plagued the Sixers last year had extremely detrimental effects on the efficiency of Embiid’s game last season. Embiid is arguably the most dominant post player in the league with shades of Olajuwon in his game as a throwback in the modern NBA. The addition of guys like Curry, Green, and Isaiah Joe should play a major role in opening up the floor to make it possible for Embiid to get his action in the post on a more effective basis. Despite leading the league in post-up attempts per game with 9.8 last season, Embiid only shot 25% of his shots around the rim. The packed paint made it difficult to navigate the block to the best of his ability and he only shot 4.6 field goal attempts out of these 9.8 touches. In comparison, he launched 21.5% of his field-goal attempts from beyond the three-point arc.
While the 31.9% he has shot from 3-point range throughout his career is respectable, there are far better ways to utilize the unique skillset that Joel possesses. Last season, the Sixers led the league in shots with 4-7 seconds left on the shot clock as a result of their stagnant offense. Doc Rivers has also spoken on his intent to speed up the pace of play which does not play to Embiid’s strength. However, if Simmons can take control in finding fast-break opportunities and allow Embiid to take control in the halfcourt, it may be the best way for the pair to compliment eachother.
Joel Embiid has come a long way from the twitter-trolling kid from Cameroon. His ascension to NBA stardom has been one that Sixers fans have been blessed to be a part of. As Embiid heads toward the prime of his career it is essential for him to take the next step in his game and Doc Rivers will have a huge role in molding him. Rivers has one of the best basketball resumes in the league and his attitude has already shown a difference on this team. “The Process” himself seems ready for this challenge and I refuse to stop trusting it.
Photo by Kyle Ross/Icon Sportswire
