The reigning MVP of the NBA for the Philadelphia 76ers, Joel Embiid, is well known for his dominant presence in the paint. Recently Embiid has extended valuable advice to the number 1 draft pick for the San Antonio Spurs’ rising star, Victor Wembanyama.
Right just when Chet Holmgren of the Oklahoma City Thunder surpassed the first timer on the NBA Rookie standing of the year, Embiid poured a portion of wisdom for the young blood.
Joel Embiid’s advice to Victor Wembanyama
Joel Embiid’s advice emphasized the need for the young player to define his playing style and aspirations for a healthy long run in this competitive league.
Reflecting on his own challenging journey, Embiid encouraged Victor Wembanyama to learn from his past mistakes, pressing thought on fact that the path to greatness involves making errors and evolving through the experience.
The seasoned NBA veteran suggested that Wembanyama must decide the kind of player he aspires to be, drawing parallels to iconic figures like Kevin Durant and himself.
“He has to figure out where he wants to play, whether he wants to be a guard or a big or whatever. It’s not necessarily whether he wants to be a guard or a big; it’s what he wants to become. Do you want to become KD, or do you want to become me?”
— NBACentral (@TheDunkCentral) December 28, 2023
– Joel Embiid on Victor… pic.twitter.com/3yhjN9BJVb
According to the recent report from the Athletic, Embiid said, “Not trying to be too critical. Obviously, extremely talented. Right now, there’s so much hype around him, I think he’s trying to live up to the hype. That’s what I see.”
He finally concluded comfortably saying, “Right now, I just feel like everything kind of feels a little forced, in the way that he’s playing. Which is not bad. Because the only way to get better is to play through it and learn. That’s the only way. You make a lot of mistakes, and you learn.”
Embiid is not the NBA veteran to share advice for the Spurs’ sensation. LeBron James had also voiced his admiration and advice for Wembanyama amid all the hype surrounding the young player.
Chet Holmgren overtakes Victor Wembanyama
As the NBA season continues to rack up the stats and dynamically change their players rank accordingly, it seems there has been a shift of tides as Chet Holmgren is taking center stage, displacing Victor Wembanyama as the frontrunner for the Rookie of the Year title.
Despite a strong performance of display since his debut in the NBA, Wembanyama’s standing as the favorite has been taken over by Holmgren, who has showcased his recent prowess on the court.
Chet Holmgren retakes the top spot in @AschNBA's NBA App Kia Rookie Ladder 👀
— NBA (@NBA) December 27, 2023
See the full list on the NBA App!
➡️ https://t.co/q3yyruqTbI pic.twitter.com/BrmxDoMwhM
Holmgren’s standout performances have propelled the Oklahoma City Thunder to an impressive fourth seed in the Western Conference, with the rookie center averaging nearly 20 points, 8.6 rebounds, and 3.0 assists per game over their recent successful stretch.
However, it is worth taking note that Holmgren benefits well from the synergy with All-NBA guard Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, a luxury not available to Wembanyama in the struggling San Antonio Spurs.
Yet through all trials and difficulties, Wembanyama has been a challenging force through 17 games. He is averaging 19.2 points per game, 9.5 rebounds, 2.6 assists, and 2.6 blocks.
Who do you think will win the Rookie of the Year? Share with us below.
