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NBA Rookie Rankings: Joel Embiid begins ‘The Process’

By Rob Wolkenbrod

Oct 26, 2016; Philadelphia, PA, USA; Philadelphia 76ers center Joel Embiid (21) stands for the national anthem prior to action against the Oklahoma City Thunder during the first half at Wells Fargo Center. Mandatory Credit: Bill Streicher-USA TODAY Sports
Oct 26, 2016; Philadelphia, PA, USA; Philadelphia 76ers center Joel Embiid (21) stands for the national anthem prior to action against the Oklahoma City Thunder during the first half at Wells Fargo Center. Mandatory Credit: Bill Streicher-USA TODAY Sports /
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Oct 6, 2016; Philadelphia, PA, USA; Philadelphia 76ers forward Dario Saric (9) in action against the Washington Wizards at Wells Fargo Center. The Washington Wizards 125-119. Mandatory Credit: Bill Streicher-USA TODAY Sports
Oct 6, 2016; Philadelphia, PA, USA; Philadelphia 76ers forward Dario Saric (9) in action against the Washington Wizards at Wells Fargo Center. The Washington Wizards 125-119. Mandatory Credit: Bill Streicher-USA TODAY Sports /

Previous: . Dario Saric. 2. team. 93. .

One part of former Sixers executive Sam Hinkie’s “The Process” was drafting and stashing. In the 2014 NBA Draft, he traded for Croatian star Dario Saric, who continued to play in Europe for two more seasons. Hinkie resigned before the 22-year-old could come to the league, however.

Now in his rookie season, Saric is getting the chance to shine, and in significant minutes (28.5 per game) immediately. Through four games, he’s averaging 11.3 points per game and 5.3 rebounds. His most recent two were his best as well, including putting up 21 points against the Magic.

With 2016 No. 1 overall pick Ben Simmons out indefinitely, Saric has received the chance to start like an NBA regular and not see limited time. It’s best for his development, especially as the Sixers are headed for another rebuilding season.

The one knock on Saric will be his shooting percentage. He’s shot above 40-percent just once and under 30-percent twice. Despite this, he remains one of the NBA’s best rookies through the first set of games.

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