MILWAUKEE — Few players in the NBA can do what Philadelphia 76ers star Joel Embiid does at his size. The 7-foot big man can almost do it all on the offensive end: He is a legit three-level scorer.
In Saturday’s 133-130 win over the Milwaukee Bucks, Embiid showed off everything he does. He had 31 points on 11-for-22 shooting, 10 assists and six rebounds while also knocking down three 3s, including a big one late to give the Sixers the lead for good.
Bucks coach Mike Budenholzer has been impressed with the way Embiid has continued to improve in the league.
“The offensive skill and touch that he has at his size is phenomenal and I just think his shot-making, his touch from 15-to-17 feet, it looks effortless,” Budenholzer said of Embiid. “It looks like a layup for him. He can take it out to the 3-point line, then he takes you off the dribble, incredibly crafty and creative about getting to the free-throw line.”
Embiid is averaging 11.7 free throw attempts per game which is ranked second in the league to Bucks star Giannis Antetokounmpo who averages 12.6 attempts per game.
“He creates lots of free throws,” Budenholzer added of Embiid. “He may be leading the league in free throws, and when he’s around the basket, he can score with force, and play in the paint. We have our hands full, everybody does every night against Embiid.”
The way the big fella has continued to grow his game has been impressive. He has accomplished a lot in the regular season, but he has to take the next level in the playoffs in order for Philadelphia to get to the NBA mountaintop.
[mm-video type=playlist id=01f09kz5ecxq9bp57b player_id=01f1jxkahtwnvzepyp image=]
[lawrence-related id=76380,76377,76369]