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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 26, 2016; Philadelphia, PA, USA; Philadelphia 76ers center Joel Embiid (21) punches the back post in reaction to his foul against the Oklahoma City Thunder during the second half at Wells Fargo Center. The Oklahoma City Thunder won 103-97. Mandatory Credit: Bill Streicher-USA TODAY Sports
Oct 26, 2016; Philadelphia, PA, USA; Philadelphia 76ers center Joel Embiid (21) punches the back post in reaction to his foul against the Oklahoma City Thunder during the second half at Wells Fargo Center. The Oklahoma City Thunder won 103-97. Mandatory Credit: Bill Streicher-USA TODAY Sports /

1. team. 93. . . Previous: . Joel Embiid

Joel Embiid’s story has been known for the past two years. He came into the 2014 NBA Draft as one of the top prospects, but dealt with issues heading into the event. This included a handful of back and foot problems, which caused him to sit out the 2014-15 season. A second surgery on his right foot led to the 22-year-old missing all of 2015-16 as well.

However, two and a half years after being drafted, Embiid finally stepped onto an NBA court, something that once seemed impossible. He would become the talk of Philadelphia basketball and got a rousing ovation anytime he touched the ball in his debut vs the Thunder. It wasn’t just a feel-good moment, though, as Embiid has looked like a more than capable basketball player coming off the injuries, and has arguably been the best rookie by a decent margin.

Embiid has put up double-digit points in all three games he’s played, including 20 in just 22 minutes in his debut. He also had 14 points in 15 minutes against the Hawks.

Potentially the most promising sign if the former No. 3 overall pick is able to get off his feet to block shots. After the issues he dealt with his feet over the past two years, there could have been an adjustment period to being a proper rim protector. He may have been concerned about landing awkwardly on his right foot, but that’s clearly not the case as he had eight blocks in three games played.

Next: 20 Richest NBA Players of All-Time

The Process is just beginning. He’ll be in a limited role throughout the season, but these numbers in short time should be a positive for a franchise that hasn’t had many good moments lately.

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