By some miracle, if Joel Embiid stays health, can he be the greatest center of all time?

OK - Wilt Chamberlain, one of the greatest hoopsters, is in a league of his own. Wilt played in a different era, for sure, which he dominated - averaging an unrealistic, but factual, 30 points per game, 22 rebounds per, and just over four assists. He is the undisputed best center ever.

Maybe Joel could be the second.

Embiid might be the 2021 MVP if he keeps performing at this pace. He put in serious work in the offseason and the Sixers made some additional personnel moves which really helped create him some space.

Embiid is averaging 29 points per game, 11 rebounds and just over three assists. What’s scary is that he’s only playing roughly 31 minutes per game. His per-36 minutes this season are 32 and 12 - incredible. Additionally, across his career, his per-36 numbers increase to 28 and 13 per game.

You’re probably reading this and thinking no way. I’m sure there are other hall of fame centers coming to mind.

Hakeem Olajuwon?

Across his amazing career, the two-time champion averaged 21 and 11.

David Robinson? Averaged 21 and 10, but obviously won quite a bit during the Spurs’ historic dynasty.

Shaq? Averaged 23 and 10.

The GREAT Bill Russell? Incredible rebounding numbers, averaging 15 and 22.

Across his career, Embiid is averaging 24 points and 11 rebounds per game.

If he by some chance stays healthy, and even plays another seven or eight seasons at this pace, he could very well be in the hall of fame discussion. If he plays longer, and maybe wins a title, it’s not as crazy to think he could be labeled the “second” best center of all time.

It’s a tall order to ask for, but for now, just enjoy the winning ways that the 76ers are having, and the elite basketball that the 2014 first round lottery pick is playing.