Joel Embiid

One might describe the scenario to be playoff-esque, as the Philadelphia 76ers and Charlotte Hornets, unquestionably aware of one another’s tendencies, battled for a third time within a 17-day span. Behind a “Phantom of the Opera”-themed face covering, Joel Embiid — as his repertoire often allows him to do — masked his intentions deceptively enough to introduce Charlotte to something they hadn’t, or better yet, couldn’t have seen coming. Excellent in the pick-and-pop synergy alongside his All-Star floor captain, Embiid helps twist the Hornets’ defense, collecting a pass that allows for a catch-and-shoot if he desires. Allowing the unselfish two-man process to continue playing out, 2023's Most Valuable Player works a between-the-leg pass and screen simultaneously, encouraging his partner's wide-open score. Having Charlotte’s number all throughout a four-game regular-season sweep, Embiid proved brilliant in the finale, pouring in 32 points (on 12-of-24 shooting), alongside five rebounds, nine assists, two steals, two blocks, and two 3-pointers on December 20, 2024.