As we continue to rank the league’s top 25 players, we arrive at Joel Embiid – the ultra-talented two-way star who can dominate both ends of the floor. Embiid has blossomed from an injury-prone yet high-potential player to a true star big man. He has incredible accomplishments and has become one of this generation’s best centers.
Top 25 NBA Players 2023-24: No. 7 Joel Embiid
A Perennial MVP Candidate
In each of the past three seasons, Embiid has finished in the top two in MVP voting, and he finally won the award last season. Embiid is an incredible athlete and interior scorer capable of putting up 30-plus on any night, all while grabbing tons of rebounds, blocking shots, and protecting the rim at an elite level. Embiid’s two-way dominance and elite scoring abilities consistently keep him in the MVP conversation. Furthermore, in recent seasons, Embiid has led the 76ers to the first seed once and to two 50-win seasons. As Embiid approaches age 30, there begins to be pressure on him to produce real playoff success, which has so far been a shortcoming in his career.
Season Recap
Last season, Embiid was a dominant force, averaging an absurd 33 points and 10 rebounds while leading the 76ers to 54 wins. He was awarded MVP as a result. Throughout the season, media members and fans heavily debated the MVP race. The race also featured Nikola Jokic, who was in line to win the award for the third straight MVP, and Giannis Antetokounmpo, who led the Bucks to the league’s best record. Embiid winning an MVP in these amazing seasons is an incredible accomplishment. While you can argue your pick for the MVP, to this day, there’s no denying Embiid’s brilliance and dominance throughout that year.
Unfortunately, Embiid’s dominance wouldn’t continue in the playoffs. The 76ers easily swept the Brooklyn Nets and advanced to the second round. However, Embiid injured his knee during the series. He would sit out for the first game against the Boston Celtics before returning for the remainder of the series. However, Embiid struggled, averaging 25 points, 9 rebounds, and 3 assists.
At face value, these seem like good stats. However, Embiid struggled with efficiency and turnovers, averaging over three per game. The Sixers wound up losing the series in seven games. Embiid had a brutal Game 7, scoring just 15 points in a blowout loss. Embiid has never elevated his play in the playoffs. Injuries and inconsistent play have always marked his postseason, leading to a lack of success. This has to change for Embiid to rise in the rankings and fully prove his greatness.
Season Outlook
James Harden‘s trade rumors have dominated the 76ers’ offseason. However, following a summer-long trade saga, the disgruntled star is returning to the 76ers, again putting Embiid in a situation next to an unhappy star. In the Eastern Conference, where the 76ers and Embiid have to compete, they got worse while their main competition improved. As a result, it’s likely the 76ers will drop in the standings after earning the three seed last year. Embiid will likely continue incredible statistical production, but this season has an ominous feel. If the 76ers fail to get a good return for Harden, they could enter a rebuild, or Embiid could demand a trade.
The Last Word on Joel Embiid
While seventh may feel like a harsh ranking for Embiid, his lack of playoff success is a massive hindrance. Embiid has never made it past the second round, and with his level of stardom with the talented rosters around him at this stage of his career, that’s completely unacceptable. Ultimately, Embiid is an extremely talented and dominant player, but he lacks the success needed to complete his stardom.
