With the 2017-18 NBA season locked in many storylines and players has been making the headlines from the Cleaved Cavaliers struggles, Boston Celtics win streak, to Giannis unreal NBA season, and so much more. That said the NBA has many players rising to the top becoming MVP candidates, and franchise cornerstones for their respective teams. These 3 men have shown this preference and are showing it through their amazing basketball play, value to the team, and leadership.
Joel Embiid
Current season averages: 22.8 points per game, 10.8 rebounds per game, 3.5 assists per game, 1.8 blocks per game, 1.0 steals per game.
Per 36 minutes: 28.0 points per game. 13.4 rebounds per game, 4.2 assists per game, 2.3 blocks per game, 1.1 steals per game.
Best performance: @ Los Angeles Lakers- 46 points, 15 rebounds, 7 assists 7 rebounds.
It's outrageous to think how good he's been and how little he's played over the years “Said an NBA scout”. It sounds ridiculous, but Joel Embiid played thirty-one games in three years (Two-foot surgeries and a knee tear) before this NBA season. The 76ers took a big risk signing Embiid to a five year $148 million dollar extension. However, it seems to be paying off as Philly is over .500 for the first time in over 5 years. Embiid is proving his doubters wrongs being a cornerstone of his team and the best player on this Philly roster. From scoring, rebounding, passing, shooting, and overall efficiency he is showing why he indeed can become the best player in the NBA.
Ben Simmons
Current season averages: 18.1 points per game, 9.1 rebounds per game, 8.0 assists per game, 1.9 steals per game, 0.7 blocks per game.
Per 36 minutes: 18.7 points per game, 9.4 rebounds per game, 8.4 assists per game, 1.9 steals per game, 0.9 blocks per game.
Best performance: @ Los Angeles Clippers- 22 points, 12 rebounds, 4 assists, 1 steal, 1 block.
Simmons is a game-warping, scheme-altering player. His combination of height and quickness makes valid physical comparisons come few and far between, allowing him to function as one of the most unorthodox point guards we've ever seen “ Said NBA Scout”. Facing the same problems like his fellow teammate Embiid Simmons sat out his whole first year due to a foot injury. Debuting this season, Simmons looks like the clear front-runner for rookie of the year with his historical play. Joining Oscar Robertson as the only players ever to post 10+ points, 10+ rebounds and 5+ assists in their first three NBA games, third rookie to have a triple-double in 4 games, and only player in NBA history to begin a season with at least 170 points, 100 rebounds and 80 assists in his team's first 10 games. Even without a consistent jump shot, Simmons is showing his excellent playmaking and value when he’s on the court. Ben Simmons is proving why he is key to the future of Philly.
Kristaps Porzingis
Current season averages: 27.8 points per game, 7.1 rebounds per game, 1.1 assists per game, 2.3 blocks per game, 0.4 steals per game.
Per 36 minutes: 30.3 points per game, 7.7 rebounds per game, 1.2 assists per game, 2.5 blocks per game, 0.5 blocks per game.
Best performance: 40 points, 8 rebounds, 1 assists, 6 blocks.
"He can play both positions, but he's built to play the 5," said an NBA coach. "Putting him there makes your team extremely hard to guard. Kristaps Porzingis has indeed taken the leap to a franchise piece after playing second fiddle to Carmelo Anthony. Porzingis as the best player on the Knicks carrying them in wins and a steady seating for the playoffs. Kristaps also has been making history, becoming the first player in the NBA since 1983–84 to post at least 40 points, five rebounds, and five blocks and make two 3-pointers and best start to a season for Knicks player, earning 300 points through 10 games. Porzingis continues to show why he’s one of the best power forwards in the game and an MVP candidate.
By Corey Richards
