“That brother ain’t scared of nobody!” Stephen A. Smith defends Joel Embiid’s last-minute pull out against Nikola Jokic challenge

Joel Embiid now has the team to contend for an NBA title.

“That brother ain’t scared of nobody!” Stephen A. Smith defends Joel Embiid’s last-minute pull out against Nikola Jokic challenge

Stephen A. Smith defends Philadelphia 76ers superstar Joel Embiid's last-minute pull out against Nikola Jokic in Denver

Joel Embiid was the league MVP in 2023. Last year, he was upstaged by fellow big man Nikola Jokic after the Philadelphia 76ers superstar was injured for a lengthy period. A battle between the two in Denver did not take place due to injury. It begged the question if he ducked the challenge. Now, Stephen A. Smith has come up with some words regarding the entire situation.

The ESPN analyst was a guest on the podcast The OGs Show. There, Smith talked about the new-look Philadelphia 76ers. While discussing the 76ers, he delved into the topic of Embiid not playing against Jokic at Denver last season.

He didn't play at the game in Denver, and it was last minute. Everybody was so salty, as it was a nationally televised game. I know, if Embiid could play, he'll play. That brother ain't scared of nobody. He'll give it to you, he'll give anybody 30. Just ask him. And he'll tell you about it beforehand and step on the court and do it.
Stephen A Smith via The OGs Show
YouTube video

Stephen A. Smith clearly stated that Joel Embiid was dominant in every aspect of the game. Be it scoring at will or handling defensive duties as required. His array of skills on both ends makes him arguably one of the best big men to play the game.

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It is just that his lack of playoff wins or NBA title wins has kept him behind Nikola Jokic. So, for him to surpass the Denver Nuggets superstar, Embiid has one thing to achieve. He needs to stay healthy in the post-season and guide his team to an NBA title soon.

Joel Embiid will have the best roster around him next season

Everyone knew that the Philadelphia 76ers came into free agency this off-season with an open book. They only had Embiid, fellow superstar Tyrese Maxey, and Kelly Oubre Jr. as important holdovers. With a chance to wipe the slate clean and start over, they completed the biggest signing of the off-season in Paul George.

However, they did not stop there. They also signed former Miami Heat playoff star Caleb Martin for a bargain. They also brought in impactful draft pieces and role players. All in all, this is the best roster Joel Embiid has had in his NBA career. 76ers are a team where the pieces complement each other, and the role players will be useful.

Therefore, the former MVP has a real chance to win an NBA title or two. It is an achievement that will elevate him to the league of the best centers to ever play in the game. Embiid has the skill; now, he just has to stay healthy and produce his best.

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