NBA: Ranking The Young Stars (22 And Younger) Of The NBA

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Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports /

4. Joel Embiid

Statistics: 19.4 ppg, 7.3 rpg, 2.4 bpg (shooting 46.6 percent from the field, 36.8 percent on threes)

This may seem a little low for some of you that trust the process, but this is where the injury risk factor comes in to play. I too trust the process, but I can’t overlook the always present concern over Embiid’s injury history. Foot injuries on big men are certainly not something to look past.

However, when on the court this season, Embiid has been showing incredible skill on both ends of the floor. He is fourth in the league in blocks and has a 2.9 defensive box plus-minus, showing his incredible ability to defend the rim for the 76ers.

On offense, Embiid has shown a great combination of post moves and outside shooting that will ensure he is a 20 ppg scorer for many years. Embiid has already developed a decent jump shot, as he is shooting 36.8 percent on three attempts per game beyond the arc.

Because Embiid is still on a minutes restriction (he is only playing 25 minutes per game so far this season), it’s important to look at his per-36 minute stats, because they offer a glimpse of what Embiid can (and probably will) do when he is playing regular minutes.

Per-36 minutes, Embiid is putting up 27.8 ppg, 10.5 rpg, and 3.4 bpg. Those are numbers that scream “best center in the league” and it’s very possible we all may be calling Embiid that in no time.