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Indiana Pacers: Will Domantas Sabonis continue to improve?

By Shawn Chambers

TORONTO, ON - FEBRUARY 05: Domantas Sabonis #11 of the Indiana Pacers is introduced prior to the first half of an NBA game against the Toronto Raptors at Scotiabank Arena on February 05, 2020 in Toronto, Canada. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Vaughn Ridley/Getty Images)
TORONTO, ON - FEBRUARY 05: Domantas Sabonis #11 of the Indiana Pacers is introduced prior to the first half of an NBA game against the Toronto Raptors at Scotiabank Arena on February 05, 2020 in Toronto, Canada. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Vaughn Ridley/Getty Images) /
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Joel Embiid – Credit: Kim Klement-USA TODAY Sports
Joel Embiid – Credit: Kim Klement-USA TODAY Sports /

Joel Embiid – Philadelphia 76ers

2017-18: 63 GP, 22.9 PPG, 48.3 FG%, 11 RPG, 1.8 BLK
2018-19: 64 GP, 27.5 PPG, 48.4 FG%, 13.6 RPG, 1.9 BLK

Drafted prior to the 2014-15 campaign, Embiid appeared in just 31 games over the next three seasons. Finally, at full health, he has made the All-Star roster in each of the three seasons since.

During the 2017-18 season, “The Process” finally showed progress jumping from the 14 seasons the previous season all the way to the three seed with a 52-30 record. A strong combination of young stars and veteran leaderships grabbed a first-round win in the playoffs over the Miami Heat and set clear expectations for the future.

Embiid was clearly the best player the Philadelphia 76ers had during 2018-19. He improved in nearly every statistical category and pushed Philadelphia to legitimate title contenders evident by the seven-game series with the Toronto Raptors (eventual NBA Champions) that came down to one of the most iconic shots in NBA history.

While Embiid has maintained his status as a top-five, maybe top-three big man in the league, Philadelphia struggled in 2019-20 and may not return to championship contention this season. It goes to show, with some natural athleticism and the ability to score the ball inside can go a long way for any team.

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