Joel Embiid snubbed again in All-NBA First Team voting

PHILADELPHIA, PENNSYLVANIA – MAY 12: Joel Embiid #21 of the Philadelphia 76ers looks on during the second half against the Miami Heat in Game Six of the 2022 NBA Playoffs Eastern Conference Semifinals at Wells Fargo Center on May 12, 2022 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. 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 Tim Nwachukwu/Getty Images)

The Philadelphia 76ers have one of the most dominant big men in basketball. Why does Joel Embiid get robbed of his season accolades so often?

An early playoff exit was not in the plans for the Sixers’ star center. After spending seven seasons in the city of brotherly love, Joel Embiid believed this could be his championship season. Offseason drama was not enough to deter the focus of the most skilled big man. His acceptance of a leadership position on his team helped the Sixers bypass a hectic Ben Simmons standoff.

Embiid’s response to the offseason adversity led Doc Rivers’ team to a solid start. It would have been nice to see Simmons join the team, but the Sixers were fine without him. When the front office saw an opportunity to get rid of Simmons, they did. A trade with the Brooklyn Nets sent Simmons further East for James Harden.

Joel Embiid improved as a scorer after teaming up with James Harden

Teaming up with an explosive scorer was an answered prayer for the All-star. When Embiid heard the news of the team’s latest acquisition, he knew it was time to get to work. Practicing with Harden helped Joel develop a step-back three-pointer – a shot he used to continue the Sixers playoff run against the Raptors.

Consistency became an issue for Embiid’s right-hand man. Instead of attacking the basket, Harden focused on getting an assist. His lack of aggressiveness on offense added additional responsibilities to Embiid’s shoulders. When scoring was the only option, Harden became unreliable.

Embiid was the guy the Sixers turned to when they needed a bucket. His ability to handle the ball with a seven-foot frame makes him one of the hardest players to stop. The big man led the league in scoring, averaging 30.6 points per night. However, fter averaging his career-best in multiple categories, Philadelphia’s franchise player walked away with only a scoring title.

Joel Embiid finishes season without All-NBA First Team accolades

Philadelphia fans were disappointed to hear the regular season MVP voting results. A close vote helped Nikola Jokic take home bragging rights. Snubbing Embiid from winning his first MVP trophy was a low blow to many Sixer supporters. When the All-NBA Teams were announced, fans were irate.

Watching Embiid’s efforts go unnoticed is difficult for Philadelphia media. When the Sixers needed a veteran leader, Embiid stepped in to save the season. The Sixers big man received Second Team honors with players like Kevin Durant and Ja Morant. As the Sixers prepare for next year, Embiid will use his displacement as needed motivation.