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Joel Embiid's Hall of Fame induction appears increasingly inevitable

In 2014, the Philadelphia 76ers selected Joel Embiid as their third overall pick, but few anticipated the bumpy road his professional journey would initially take.

Emerging strongly as a certain inductee into the Basketball Hall of Fame: Joel Embiid.
Emerging strongly as a certain inductee into the Basketball Hall of Fame: Joel Embiid.

Joel Embiid's Hall of Fame induction appears increasingly inevitable

Joel Embiid's Hall of Fame Journey: A Dominant Force in the NBA

Joel Embiid, the Philadelphia 76ers' star centre, is making a strong case for the Basketball Hall of Fame. Drafted third overall in 2014, Embiid's career has been marked by a series of impressive achievements.

Despite a delayed debut in 2016 due to foot injuries, Embiid's peak has been undeniable. He has dominated as a perennial MVP candidate, carrying Philadelphia to multiple deep playoff runs. Few centres in league history have matched Embiid's combination of size, skill, and consistency.

Embiid's accolades include seven All-Star nods, five All-NBA selections, two scoring titles, and one MVP award. His achievements place him on track for the Hall of Fame, whether or not he adds a championship to his resume.

Zach Kram of ESPN has noted that Embiid and Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, another MVP award winner, are shoo-ins for the Hall of Fame due to their accolades. However, unlike Embiid, Gilgeous-Alexander's former teammate, Derrick Rose, is the only retired former MVP who is not in the Hall of Fame.

Embiid has shaped an era of basketball in his own way, redefining what big men can do offensively. He became the first centre since Shaquille O'Neal to win multiple scoring titles. Despite injuries, Embiid's peak has been unquestionable.

Reports suggest Embiid is targeting a strong return in 2026 and beyond, giving him the chance to reset physically. If Embiid continues to pile on accolades, the conversation will shift from if to how quickly he earns his place among basketball's immortals.

It's worth noting that Embiid has not specifically been noted for awarding or mentoring other NBA players to recommend himself for the Hall of Fame. However, his impact on the game is undeniable, and his contributions to the Sixers and the NBA will likely secure his place in basketball history.

The Hall of Fame class of 2025 included Carmelo Anthony, Dwight Howard, and the famed 2008 U.S. "Redeem Team." As Embiid continues to make his mark, it's clear that he is carving out a path for himself that could lead to enshrinement in the Hall of Fame.

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