Joel Embiid doesn't have a rivalry with Nikola Jokic.
Joel Embiid and Nikola Jokic are widely considered to be the No. 1 and No. 2 center in the league, in whatever order. They are both extremely talented players that have a throwback game, relying heavily on post-ups to score near the rim.
Due to them both being prominent big men in the game, some people believe that there is a rivalry between Embiid and Jokic. In fact, Joel Embiid seemed extra motivated for his recent matchup against Nikola Jokic, tallying 47 points and 18 rebounds. After the game though, Embiid denied that he had a rivalry with Jokic or was extra motivated to face him, noting that he's a "big fan" of the Denver Nuggets superstar.
It’s not a rivalry, I love the big fella man. Two time MVP, one of the best players in the league and he’s such a good player, I’m a big fan.
There is no doubt that Joel Embiid has a huge amount of respect for Nikola Jokic. He is clearly a player that can appreciate what Jokic can do on the court. Any matchup between the two is bound to be exciting to watch for fans, even if they aren't technically rivals on the basketball court.
Nikola Jokic Also Has Respect For Joel Embiid
The respect between Nikola Jokic and Joel Embiid is definitely mutual. Previously, Nikola Jokic called Joel Embiid a "great player" that has the ability to "do everything on the floor". Both players clearly understand the other's greatness and both are MVP-level this season.
"... He's a great player, great. Like, foreal, great, great player. He can do everything on the floor, who is controlling the game, who is in conversation for MVP and the best player in the league. He's so dominant. ... I like to play with the best."
Joel Embiid has a multi-faceted scoring skill set, and he oftentimes does guard-like things on the court as a true center. Embiid is truly a special player that is a joy to watch when he's dominating. While he has not had that much playoff success during his career, part of that can be attributed to team construction.
Hopefully, we see Nikola Jokic and Joel Embiid face off in the Finals in the future. That would definitely be a marquee matchup. Both the Philadelphia 76ers and the Denver Nuggets are legitimate contenders this year, and perhaps that matchup can happen this season.
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