1. Joel Embiid’s biggest test yet (in Orlando)
The Magic defense will throw everything and the kitchen sink at Embiid. And for the first time in his career, he looks fully prepared to handle it.
Embiid has been the Sixers’ biggest bright spot in Orlando. He has produced at a superstar level, averaging 32.7 points and 13.7 rebounds through three games. The most important stat, however, is his 4.0 assists per game. His willingness and ability to pass out of double teams has been a revelation.
The Sixers’ opponents so far — Indiana, San Antonio, and Washington — have all been grossly undersized and ill-prepared to handle Embiid. And while his patience and poise is still an important development, there’s still valid skepticism until he shows the same poise and patience against more formidable defenses. The Magic are the biggest test yet.
Orlando’s loss of Jonathan Isaac and Aaron Gordon wounds them quite a bit, but Vucevic is still the most physical defender Embiid has faced thus far in the bubble. If he can still manage double teams with Vucevic posted up, that is a promising sign of things to come.
Without Simmons, the Magic will be tuned into everything Embiid does. He will also be the Sixers’ go-to source of creation in the halfcourt — he’s essentially the only player who can consistently break down a set defense, and that’s largely because of his ability to attract double teams.
If Embiid doesn’t produce, Philadelphia will stand no chance. If he does produce, however, the Sixers will have four capable shooters around him. The Sixers are not better without Simmons, but there’s a chance Embiid is individually better in his absence. Gear up for another big performance.