Are Nerlens Noel And Joel Embiid Compatible?

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Dec 22, 2015; Philadelphia, PA, USA; Philadelphia 76ers center Joel Embiid (L) and forward Nerlens Noel (R) work out prior to a game against the Memphis Grizzlies at Wells Fargo Center. Mandatory Credit: Bill Streicher-USA TODAY Sports /

This Should Work

The theory is yes. While Nerlens Noel is a bona-fide rim protector, Joel Embiid exhibits enough athleticism and physicality to push out to defend away from the basket. The struggle with Noel and Okafor was the willingness of both to collapse to the basket. Okafor was never a shot blocker, and has plenty of upside on rebounds. Noel was never a shooter.

This new combination has some new dynamics. Keep in mind, this was the original plan when Sam Hinkie was building the roster.

Noel will not be compelled to help on defense, as Joel Embiid has a good track record of defending in the past. Noel is great with both hands in defending the basket, and he gets great position in angles and timing of his jumps. Given the opportunity to focus on defense, he will be given the chance to explode in transition as he will have Joel Embiid and likely have Ben Simmons to scoop up his rejections:

Imagine the team with Embiid coming off the bench, facing the reserves on another team, or giving Embiid a breather. But it needn’t just be an either or. Can Joel Embiid compliment the game of Noel?

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