Okafor Outplays Offensively
It was immediately viewed as a quick flip selection; a GM whose reputation was built from machine-gun-draft-day-dealings, Hinkie had just selected his third center in three consecutive years. That belief that Jahlil Okafor was selected for trade currency has never been shaken, and even to this day speculation of trading Jahlil Okafor is almost a given – as though the Sixers have already determined that must happen. But that was not the case in the 2015 draft. Without Embiid joining the active roster, and with the team having already shifted Noel’s focus to the power forward role in the 2015-2016 season, random luck prevailed and delivered Embiid’s replacement to the roster with no-one the wiser until months later.
And so, news of Embiid’s second needed surgery did become public eventually, and the team pressed forward with a roster minus Joel Embiid for the second year. Rebuilding paused and reset for one more year. If Jahlil Okafor was viewed simply as a “temporary patch” at the center position, I think he outplayed virtually every expectation. Not only did he bring a strong post presence to the Sixers, but he had an arsenal of moves to remain the team’s leading scorer despite being a rookie. In fact, his 7.0 rebounds per game is second only to teammate Noel’s 8.0 RPG. In his first NBA season, he has found an NBA basketball court to be a very friendly stage for his skills.
Had Okafor delivered at or below expectations, there is no doubt in my mind that the 2016 off-season would find the 76ers off-loading the young center for the best offer available. But his performance was such that he has already joined the company of just a few NBA stars who have played before him. With his offense already showing the potential, would it be wise to entertain offers to trade him? So far, the Philadelphia 76ers have not consented, nor do I expect that they will. Next year, the player who shows up on the roster will be familiar with the routine, the team, and the roster. Considering he ended this season at such a high plateau, his second season could have the potential to show him as an NBA player whose career trajectory places him into the All Star category. But we’ve already had that discussion, so let’s return to our optimistic scenario.
Next: Embiid's Upside