Joel Embiid Joins Michael Jordan in Exclusive Scoring Company

Over the past three seasons, Philadelphia 76ers star Joel Embiid has emerged as one of the game's most dominant scorers. His most recent outing has put him in the same conversation as arguably one of the greatest players ever.

After missing the Sixers' previous two games, Embiid made his return to action on Wednesday. The Washington Wizards are a team he's had great success again, and that continued in the most recent matchup.

Earlier this year, Embiid dropped 48 points in an offensive masterclass against the Wizards. This time around, he notched a new season-high by going for 50. With this performance, Embiid put himself in exclusive company with Chicago Bulls legend Michael Jordan.

Over the past 40 years, only two players have notched 50 points, 10 rebounds, and five assists in a game on 60% shooting from the field. Those being His Airness and the Sixers' superstar big man.

Most 50/10/5 games on 60 FG%, last 40 years:

4 — Embiid
4 — Jordan pic.twitter.com/eJfuuQPJ6n
— StatMuse (@statmuse) December 7, 2023

Embiid's full stat line against the Wizards was 50 points, 13 rebounds, and seven assists. He shot 19-for-29 from the field (65.5%) and converted 11 of his 13 free-throw attempts (84.6%).

Any time a player is put in the same conversation as Jordan, they must be doing something right. Stats like these are a testament to Embiid being arguably one of the top scorers of his generation.

As the reigning league MVP, Embiid continues to add new layers to his game. The biggest takeaway from his play thus far is his improved playmaking. Along with scoring 33 points a game, Embiid is also dishing out a career-high 6.6 assists per game.

Passing is something Embiid has slowly developed over his career, but now is a fully functional part of his arsenal. With his improved ability to facilitate, the All-Star center has become a true all-around talent on both ends of the floor.