Potential Realized With Philadelphia 76ers 2016 Lineup

Nov 2, 2015; Philadelphia, PA, USA; Philadelphia 76ers center Joel Embiid (21) before a game against the Cleveland Cavaliers at Wells Fargo Center. The Cavaliers won 107-100. Mandatory Credit: Bill Streicher-USA TODAY Sports

Joel Embiid

Power Forward Joel Embiid was the top rated prospect in the 2014 NBA draft. Top-rated until news hit the headlines that he had an injured foot. A foot injury that required surgery and follow up rehabilitation.  But his dedication to getting healthy was distracted by youthful enthusiasm, a hefty paycheck, and complete and utter boredom.  How much of a role that played in the need for a second surgery is speculation.  But the second time around seemed to be much more structured, comprehensive, and successful. Here’s the results:

Embiid is versatile enough to play multiple BIG positions on this team.   He can work mid-range shots and defend from the four position, or play a post game from the five spot.   With Okafor showing so much upside at the center spot, Embiid will likely get minutes elsewhere.    His game will certainly come with plenty of hype.  But this is one player who can deliver – eventually.

The challenge is NOT what Joel Embiid can do, but how quickly he can deliver.  I am NOT going to get swept up in the expectation.   He’s been out of the game for two years, but he’s been working with an NBA team that entire time.  That will accelerate his learning curve, but will not eliminate it.  I’ll project Embiid in the “Kevin Love/Chris Bosh” category for year one, and project his offense to come in at 25 minutes , shooting 47.5 % from the floor, 12 points per game, 9 rebounds per game, 1 assist and 1 block per game, .7 steals and 1.5 turnovers per game.

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