To sum the first few weeks of Embiid up: jaw-dropping. For the first time since Allen Iverson, the Sixers have a player who is guaranteed to do something every single game that will make you fall out of your seat.
Growing up, you may have watched Allen Iverson’s crossover or Carmelo Anthony’s step-back and marveled at how easy it looked. For most, it was an illusion. For Joel Embiid, it really was that easy. He possesses a chameleon-like ability to develop skills or moves that were once completely foreign to him.
Embiid has played three seasons of high school basketball, half of one college season, and one NBA pre-season, and has skills more refined than most players dream to be. From a development standpoint, his offensive and defensive recognition is understandably below par. I’ve noticed that he routinely misses his role in a set play, he’ll lose his man under the basket for a box out, or he’ll mentally check out on defense after his man makes a pass. These mistakes should be expected and are minor changes for someone like Embiid.
When his potential is met with experience and improved conditioning, I expect his game to reach a level of polish that is nearly unfathomable. As for right now, the Sixers are must-watch television for 20-24 minutes per game. Fingers crossed, the best is still yet to come.