“Serbian flu” – Joel Embiid is AVOIDING matchup with Nikola Jokic, Philly’s All-star gets roasted by Richard Jefferson

Embiid accused of avoiding matchups against Jokic by former NBA player and now-famous analyst Richard Jefferson.

“Serbian flu” – Joel Embiid is AVOIDING matchup with Nikola Jokic, Philly’s All-star gets roasted by Richard Jefferson

Nikola Jokic and Joel Embiid (image via ESPN)

Richard Jefferson, former NBA player, and now famous analyst, made a bold claim by suggesting that Joel Embiid might be intentionally avoiding matchups with Denver Nuggets’ star, Nikola Jokic. Jefferson humorously referred to it as the “Serbian Flu,” drawing comparisons to earlier occasions when NBA players allegedly avoided playing against difficult opponents.

The Philadelphia 76ers’ center, Embiid, has been notably absent for matches in Denver against Jokic since 2019. A standout matchup between the two giants last season in Philadelphia where Embiid dominated with 47 points and 18 rebounds. However, his absence in the eagerly awaited rematch in Denver raised questions among fans and analysts.

YouTube video

“Joel, I don’t think you’re ducking Jokic,” Jefferson said sarcastically. “But from this point on, I’m going to keep saying you’re ducking Jokic until you guys do play.” The current head-to-head record between the two stands at 5-2 in Embiid’s favor.

FS Video

“They call it the Serbian Flu. It’s been diagnosed, there are a lot of variations,” Jefferson said. Drawing parallels with past NBA superstars, he added, “There used to be Shaq Flu, Kobe flu, MJ flu, and a lot of different things. Right now, it’s the Serbian flu.“

Related: Joel Embiid to LEAVE 76ers? NBA insider provides massive update on reigning MVP’s future in Philadelphia

The MVP race and legacy between Nikola Jokic and Joel Embiid

Nikola Jokic (L) and Joel Embiid (R)
Nikola Jokic (L) and Joel Embiid (R) (Via Kyle Ross-USA TODAY Sports)

The MVP debate recently became a two-person race between Nikola Jokic and Joel Embiid. While Jokic won the MVP title in 2021 and 2022, Embiid narrowly secured the 2023 award. However, the accolade seems bittersweet for the 76ers’ big man. Critics argue that while Embiid was chasing individual glory, Jokic had his eyes set on a more prestigious goal: an NBA championship, which he later achieved.

These differences in achievements have tilted the “best center” conversation decidedly towards Jokic. Despite being the current MVP, Embiid’s legacy appears slightly dimmed, especially with his postseason record falling short of expectations. He has yet to progress beyond the second round of the playoffs, whereas Jokic has a championship.

Statistically, both players shine in their matchups. Jokic averages 21.9 points, 8.9 rebounds, and 7.4 assists against Embiid, who counters with 25.7 points, 11.9 rebounds, and 3.6 assists. However, Embiid will require more than just statistics if he wants to compete for this generation’s title of best center. For Embiid to level the playing field, a dominant season and a deep playoff run are crucial.

In case you missed it: