Here's a look at where Bleacher Report placed Philadelphia 76ers' Joel Embiid in their latest NBA player rankings.
Joel Embiid remains one of the NBA's most talented players when healthy.
The problem is the seven-time All-Star is greatly struggling to stay on the floor once again this season, as he has appeared in just 31 of the 76ers' 55 games.
Still, his numbers when on the court in 2026 are jaw-dropping, as he's averaging 29.9 points, 8.1 rebounds, and 4.5 assists on 53.5% shooting in 17 games played. He may lack a bit of the explosiveness he once had, but scoring the ball at a high rate has never been a problem for the 2023 MVP.
This is why Bleacher Report placed him at No. 25 in their top 99 NBA player rankings.
"Embiid is making the transition from headliner to co-star with enviable application. Many of his trademark touches remain, and his usage is still high," B/R's Dan Favale wrote. "But he is also taking cues from Tyrese Maxey (and VJ Edgecombe) rather than issuing them. More of his buckets are coming off assists, and his touch time is down—essential adjustments that were not a given."
One slot behind Embiid in the rankings is Los Angeles Lakers' LeBron James, and the spot ahead is Utah Jazz's Lauri Markkanen. The other 76ers to appear on the list are Paul George at No. 92, V.J. Edgecombe at No. 91, and Tyrese Maxey at No. 11.
The fact Embiid is no longer the No. 1 option on what's meant to be his team likely contributes a lot to this placement. Maxey is simply performing at a higher level and is more available this season. The two-time All-Star is averaging 28.9 points and 6.8 assists on 46.9% shooting in 53 games played.
It's quite unfortunate for 76ers fans to watch Embiid's fall from grace over the past two seasons, but he deserves a lot of credit for being able to remain a top-25 player in the league given all his injury struggles.
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