Philadelphia 76ers: 5 bold predictions for Joel Embiid next season

Will the Philadelphia 76ers’ biggest star continue his upward trajectory in 2018-19?

Last season, Joel Embiid established himself as the best center in the NBA. Aside from a freak collision with Markelle Fultz‘s shoulder — the irony in that statement is painful — he was largely healthy. He made his first All-Star appearance, starting for Stephen Curry‘s team.

In 30.3 minuets per game, Embiid averaged 22.9 points, 11.0 rebounds and 3.2 assists. This is Embiid’s first healthy summer, meaning his playing time will increase next season. Add in some improvement under Drew Hanlen’s tutelage, and it’s easy to expect another career year from the big fella.

Along with Embiid, the Philadelphia 76ers took a massive step forward last season, winning 52 games and securing the third seed in the East. With LeBron James out of the picture, many expect them to continue building on that success, with Embiid at the forefront.

Standing 7-foot-2 and weighing over 250 pounds, Embiid anchors one of the league’s best defenses. He’s also the cornerstone of Brett Brown’s offense, emerging as one of the highest-usage players in the league.

He’s at the center of everything this Sixers team does, and that won’t stop anytime soon. He’s the face of the franchise both on and off the court, punishing opposing defenses and serving roasts on Twitter.

What can fans expect from the NBA’s most marketable big man next season?