Philadelphia 76ers star Joel Embiid is one of the dominant players in the NBA. The way he can score in the low post, knock down mid-range jumpers and get to the foul line is challenging to stop, enabling him to have a big impact every night.
Add his ability to now pass the ball out of the post, and it is tough to come up with new ways to stop Embiid. Then there is his ability to protect the rim and make plays on the defensive end.
Before the Sixers knocked off host Washington, Wizards coach Wes Unseld Jr. discussed what impressed him the most about Embiid.
“His versatility,” said Unseld Jr. “His size and strength obviously is one thing. His ability to … play inside and out, play off the bounce. In every area, he’s effective. Whether it’s the top of the floor, off the elbows, in the post, not only as a scorer, but a passer.”
Opposing defenses continue to throw different double teams at Embiid, and he has attacked them the right way. He has made smart decisions with the pass and displayed an understanding of when to score and when to allow others to make plays.
The Wizards sent numerous doubles toward Embiid on Sunday, but he still had 36 points and 13 rebounds. The big fella has continued to make strides, which is why the Sixers are still considered a threat in the East.
“He’s a willing playmaker,” Unseld Jr. added. “He’s able to pick you apart if you’re not clean with your coverage.”
This post originally appeared on Sixers Wire! Follow us on Facebook!
[mm-video type=playlist id=01f09kz5ecxq9bp57b player_id=01eqbvq570kgj8vfs7 image=https://sixerswire.usatoday.com/wp-content/plugins/mm-video/images/playlist-icon.png]
[listicle id=56136]
[lawrence-related id=56353,56350,56347]