By: Kylan Watson

Last night, the Philadelphia 76ers played the Los Angeles Lakers in a battle of high profile rookies. The match-up included 76ers star forward Ben Simmons and Lakers star point guard, Lonzo Ball. The highlight of the game was not Simmons or Ball it was Sixers star big man, Joel “The Process” Embiid. Embiid is proving that when healthy he is not only a difference maker, but he maybe the key cog in the Sixers route back to becoming a winning franchise again.

Embiid had a great game he scored 46 points, grabbed 15 rebounds, recorded 7 blocks, and had 7 assists. He is the first player in the history of the NBA to do that during a game.

Embiid also scored 32 points and 13 rebounds against the LA Clippers. The Sixers were able to win that game as well.

Embiid and the 76ers had a great west coast trip.  During this west coast trip, the Sixers won three games and lost two games.  The 76ers seem to be turning the corner and proving that the team may be ready to become a playoff contender.

Embiid was not the only Sixer to shine during the trip. Ben Simmons is also proving that he is ready to put the team on his back as well. Simmons has been averaging 17.8 points per game, grabbing 7.8 rebounds per game, and recording 7.7 assists per game.

Embiid and Simmons are proving to be a dynamic young duo in the league.

If Embiid can stay healthy the 76ers can turn the corner and become a contender again. Add in the addition of Simmons and a returning Markelle Fultz to the mix. The 76ers could be looking like a formidable team in the Eastern Conference.

The 76ers are ahead of schedule and they have Joel Embiid to thank for that, he has vastly improved his play so far, this season. It is an exciting time to be a 76ers fan.