Public perception never seems to lose its value in the NBA. For decades, elite players have pursued more than paychecks, championships, and Olympic gold. Throughout his 10-year career, Philadelphia 76ers center Joel Embiid has continued to lead his team with hopes of a successful postseason. As the 76ers prepare for their final playoff push, former All-Star guard Jeff Teague weighed in on the pivot.
Jeff Teague Lauds 76ers C Joel Embiid NBA Greatness, Despite Injuries
Currently, the 76ers hold the No. 8 seed in the Eastern Conference. Embiid is second on the team in scoring with 26.6 points per game, adding 7.5 rebounds, 3.9 assists, and 1.1 blocks. A seven-time All-Star, the Kansas product has earned respect as one of the league’s top centers. Teague, who played 12 seasons, now hosts the “Club 520 Podcast.” He discussed the former MVP.
“If Joel Embiid had a healthy NBA career, he’d be the greatest center of all time,” Embiid said. “Like, it’s not even a joke. It would be between him and (Nikola) Jokic. He would be at least No. 1 or No. 2 greatest center of all time. If he was full-time healthy, bro, it would be a joke.”
Jeff Teague says if Joel Embiid had a healthy NBA career he would be the greatest center of all time:
“Like, it’s not even a joke. It would be between him and Jokic. He would be at least one or two greatest center of all time. If he was full time healthy bro, it would be a… pic.twitter.com/GtFmLK1vTp
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The numbers support Teague’s assertion for several reasons. First, the way Embiid scores. Despite standing over 7 feet tall and weighing 280 pounds, he can operate at all three levels on the court. As a natural center, he possesses an array of post moves that allow him to score in the paint.
He also takes slower, controlled steps away from the basket, connecting on mid-range jump shots. Lastly, he steps behind the arc and makes 3-point shots, as his 33.8% from deep attests. Not to mention his 10.8 points and 3.7 assists per game.
Teague highlighted the skills of Embiid and Jokic. While traditional centers often stayed near the basket, the modern post player can step out to shoot. Most importantly, Embiid involves his teammates. As defenses swarm him, the 32-year-old finds the cutting teammate or one waiting behind the arc.
Historically, Embiid’s résumé compares well with other centers. For example, Shaquille O’Neal never averaged more than 26 points after age 31. Likewise, Patrick Ewing failed to reach that mark after age 28.
Teague emphasized the health factor, which remains defining. Embiid has missed as many regular-season games as he has played. His injury troubles began at Kansas, where in March 2014, he suffered a stress fracture in his back that ended his season.
Six days before the 2014 NBA Draft, Embiid sustained a serious foot injury that cost him his first two NBA seasons. From there, injuries followed. The All-NBA Defensive standout has never played more than 68 games in a regular season.
Similarly, injuries have hindered the postseason. The 76ers have reached the playoffs seven times, losing in the conference semifinals five times and in the first round twice. Leg injuries continue to plague Embiid.
Philadelphia still runs its offense through Embiid but continues to evolve. The starting backcourt of point guard Tyrese Maxey and rookie VJ Edgecombe has been leading the charge, but with Maxey sidelined by injury and Paul George suspended, the team has been struggling.
