Philadelphia 76ers: A 2019 Christmas present for every player
Joel Embiid — Better instincts
This is mainly a comment on Joel Embiid’s instincts as a passer. Yes, in the broadest possible strokes, Philadelphia needs a more assertive Embiid. A more consistent Embiid. He needs to play the part of top-10 superstar every night, rather than selectively unleashing his full talents.
On the other hand, Embiid is more mindful of his health and preservation now than he has ever been. He will still act the part of a defiant star who wants to play at all costs, but the Toronto series was a lesson. He knows he needs to prioritize May over December.
Where Embiid can improve most beyond an ‘attack at all moments’ mindset is his passing. Teams will throw multiple bodies at Embiid until the end of time. He’s the most double-team friendly star in basketball — a lumbering 7-foot-2 center who does his damage in the post.
dark. Next. 15 greatest seasons in franchise history
Embiid doesn’t consistently handle double teams well, which is a problem for someone who commands them so often. Part of the issue is Philadelphia’s supporting cast, but in the end, Embiid would generate countless open looks simply by making quicker reads as a passer and getting less shot-happy when confronted with a crowd.