Training Highlights and Lowlights
As Embiid’s training videos grew in popularity, so did the cries of “No NBA scoring” and “He hasn’t played yet”. Eventually, the volume of detractors rose in volume until Joel Embiid himself addressed the point.
Stop telling me that yall got the same stats as I do.... I know WE DO but it's about to change though in a couple months lol #CLOWNS
— Joel “Troel” Embiid (@JoelEmbiid) June 11, 2016
But those comments merely added to the desire.
And so, we find ourselves here today. In the anticipation of Joel Embiid’s rookie season, the fans have been exceptionally realistic. Whether the fears of jinxing his season, or just the sense of remaining grounded, fans expect a modest rookie season. But his two-year rehabilitation was not vacationing on the beach, nor spent in a lethargic state of disinterest. Each day, his fire burned more intensely. Each day, detractors added fuel to the flames.
Felt great being back out there... Now we don't have the same amounts of points and minutes ha #TrustTheProcess pic.twitter.com/xhrSEgjAVO
— Joel “Troel” Embiid (@JoelEmbiid) October 5, 2016
Each fan who anticipated his arrival became a cry for help. Perhaps that belief in the young center from Cameroon is the true catalyst. Joel Embiid understands that this team needs a lead dog.