76ers star Joel Embiid has every reason to take his ESPN ranking personally

ESPN placed Philadelphia 76ers center Joel Embiid at No. 41 in its annual preseason ranking of NBA players. While the ranking marked an increase of six spots compared to the previous year, recurring injury issues and uncertain game availability were cited as central factors behind his lower placement.

Players ranked ahead of Embiid on ESPN's list include Stephon Castle, Jalen Duren, Amen Thompson, and Alperen Sengun. The former league MVP is entering the season with the Philadelphia 76ers positioned among the prominent title contenders.