Joel Embiid, singlehandedly, might have made a regular season, middle-of-January affair with the Bucks appear to have incredible importance. Early dominance gave way to NBA prognosticators labeling him as Rookie of the Year frontrunner, but he’s seeking greater heights. “The Process” is pushing for an All-Star Game bid, hoping to become the first rookie since Blake Griffin in 2011 to appear in the spectacle.
The fanbase has tirelessly used social media to give Embiid a chance before NBA personnel deems him worthy, but the 7-foot-2 rookie sensation has backed up his case recently. Over the month of January, he’s catalyzed a Sixers breakthrough in the standings, serving as a primary option in the post and remaining a rim-protecting presence.