The Denver Nuggets have been a surprise this season, and one of the biggest reasons for their success has been Nikola Jokic. But is he really a better big man than Anthony Davis?
The joel embiid vs nikola jokic mvp is a debate that has been going on for a while. Joel Embiid is a better big man than Nikola Jokic, but Nikola Jokic is a better basketball player.
By signing Joel Embiid to a four-year, $196 million supermax contract, the Philadelphia 76ers have made a significant commitment in him. The contract will keep him under contract for a total of $261 million through the 2026-27 NBA season. Although it is a large deal, ESPN’s Stephen A. Smith thinks Embiid is deserving of it.
Early in his career, he was plagued by ailments, but the 7-footer’s fortunes have improved in recent years. During the 2020-21 season, he appeared in 51 games, averaging 28.5 points and 10.6 rebounds. Embiid was selected second-team All-NBA and finished second in MVP voting.
Stephen A. Smith praised the four-time All-Star and shared his thoughts on where Embiid fits in among the NBA’s top big men.
When healthy, Stephen A. Smith thinks Joel Embiid is the greatest NBA big man.
“If it weren’t for durability problems, we’d be calling him the greatest big guy in basketball instead of Jokic,” Stephen A. Smith said on ESPN’s First Take.
Smith was alluding to Nikola Jokic, the center for the Denver Nuggets, who was voted the NBA’s Most Valuable Player for 2020. He used Jokic’s name in such a way that it implies he believes the Serbian big man is the greatest center in the NBA.
With that title in mind, a few names have been used interchangeably, but Embiid and Jokic have started to separate themselves. Both sides can make compelling arguments, and it’s a discussion worth having.
In contrast to Jokic, how does Embiid fare?
Justin Casterline/Getty Images; Mitchell Leff/Getty Images; Stephen A Smith talking on an NBA game; Joel Embiid vs. Nikola Jokic | Justin Casterline/Getty Images; Mitchell Leff/Getty Images
Jokic had a fantastic season in 2020-21, averaging 26.4 points, 10.8 rebounds, and 8.3 assists per game. He’s just 26 years old, yet he’s already one of the game’s most talented offensive centers. Given his stature, he is a superb passer and ball-handler. This one-of-a-kind skill set has set him apart from other NBA big men.
Embiid, as talented as Jokic is, brings certain talents to the table that Jokic lacks. The former Jayhawk is the league’s finest two-way center. He has been named to the All-Defensive Second Team thrice. He’s a great rim protector, and when he’s locked in, he’s unstoppable in the paint.
He isn’t as good a passer as Jokic, but he is more than capable of producing comparable scoring statistics. Both players can stretch the floor and make long-range shots, which is crucial in today’s game. The Joker, on the other hand, doesn’t have nearly as big of an effect on the defensive end of the floor as Embiid.
Smith makes a valid argument. So, is Embiid the NBA’s best big man? That depends on how you perceive Giannis Antetokounmpo and Anthony Davis, who is also prone to injury.
Regardless, assuming injuries do not become an issue in the future, the 76ers superstar’s potential is limitless.
Is Embiid’s injury history a hindrance to his success?
The 27-year-old has had his fair share of ailments since the 76ers picked him with the No. 3 overall selection in the 2014 NBA Draft out of the University of Kansas. His early years in the game were plagued by numerous operations owing to foot and knee problems.
As a consequence, Embiid has been classified as a high-risk player. Although the term isn’t entirely true, his injury history is notable. The front office is betting on a player’s availability when making a significant financial commitment in him. That is the first step.
During the 2020-21 season, he missed 10 games due to a bone bruise in his left knee, which may have been the decisive reason in his losing the MVP race to Jokic. Due to a partly torn meniscus in his right knee, he also missed a game during the first round of the playoffs. For the rest of the playoffs, Embiid was able to play despite the ailment.
He was a key figure in the Sixers’ “Trust the Process” period of rebuilding. The team showed potential, but it only resulted in the Eagles being eliminated from the playoffs sooner than anticipated. Injuries, chemistry issues, and Ben Simmons’ offensive struggles have all kept this squad behind.
If Embiid can remain healthy, he has the ability to be one of the greatest basketball players in the world and lead the 76ers to victory.
ESPN and Basketball Reference provided all stats.
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Nikola Jokic is a big man who plays for the Denver Nuggets. He was born on December 25, 1995 in Sombor, Serbia. He is 6’11 and weighs 240 pounds. Reference: how old is nikola jokic.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Joel embiid better than Nikola Jokic?
Joel Embiid is a better player than Nikola Jokic.
Is Nikola Jokic the best nugget ever?
Nikola Jokic is a highly skilled player and has been named the best nugget ever.
Is Jokic the best player?
Yes, Nikola Jokic is the best player.
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