Joel Embiid Ranked Among the Top 20 Greatest Centers of All Time — But How Many Times Has He Fallen to Injury Before Reaching True Glory?

Joel Embiid, the reigning MVP of the Philadelphia 76ers, has been officially ranked among the Top 20 Greatest Centers in NBA history. According to HoopsHype, Embiid landed at No. 17 on the prestigious list, joining the likes of Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, Shaquille O’Neal, Hakeem Olajuwon, and Wilt Chamberlain. On paper, this honor cements Embiid as one of the most dominant big men to ever step on the hardwood. With his massive frame, graceful footwork, and a scoring arsenal that ranges from paint dominance to a deadly mid-range jumper, Embiid represents the prototype of a modern-day dominant center. But here’s the twist: while his talent is undeniable, his availability is questionable. Injuries have haunted his career since day one, raising the uncomfortable but unavoidable question — can a player who misses this much time truly belong among the game’s all-time greats?

The Power of Embiid: Unstoppable When Healthy

At his peak, Joel Embiid is nearly unguardable. Standing 7 feet tall with over 280 pounds of strength, yet moving like a guard, Embiid is the perfect hybrid of size, agility, and skill. He can post up with force, draw fouls at an elite rate, knock down mid-range shots, and even stretch the floor with the occasional three-pointer. 

His MVP season showcased averages that rival some of the best centers in history: more than 30 points per game, double-digit rebounds, and game-changing defense in the paint. Analysts often point out that when Embiid is healthy and locked in, he resembles a fusion between Shaquille O’Neal’s brute force and Hakeem Olajuwon’s finesse. That combination alone justifies why many experts believe he deserves recognition among the greats.

The Curse of Injuries: A Career Derailed at Crucial Moments

Yet, there’s a darker side to the Embiid story. From his very first years in the league, injuries have been a constant shadow. Embiid missed his first two full seasons due to foot problems. Since then, he’s battled knee issues, back tightness, torn ligaments, and facial fractures. Every time he seems to be hitting his stride, a new injury strikes. Injuries are the single biggest reason why Embiid’s legacy is constantly debated. Unlike Kareem, Shaq, or Duncan, who built dynasties with years of durability, Embiid’s career has been stop-and-go. Fans can’t help but ask: how many more playoff runs will end not because of the opponent, but because of Embiid’s body giving out?

Playoff Struggles: The Missing Piece in His Legacy

If greatness is measured not just by stats, but by playoff success, Embiid’s resume raises red flags. Yes, he has had moments of brilliance in the postseason. But too often, injuries leave him a step slower, unable to carry the 76ers over the hump.

The Sixers have not made it past the second round of the playoffs during his tenure, a glaring hole compared to other legends on the Top 20 centers list. For example, Bill Walton, who also had his career cut short by injuries, still managed to win a championship and Finals MVP. Embiid, in contrast, still chases his first deep playoff run. This isn’t just about statistics anymore — it’s about the storyline of unfulfilled potential.

The Ranking Controversy: Does He Deserve the Spot?

Placing Joel Embiid at No. 17 ahead of certain centers has sparked heated debate in NBA circles. Supporters argue that when he’s available, he’s one of the most dominant players the game has ever seen. Critics, however, push back, saying it’s unfair to rank him so high when his career longevity and playoff achievements pale compared to others.

What makes this conversation even more controversial is that the list excluded or pushed down centers who had more decorated playoff careers but perhaps lacked Embiid’s peak dominance. The tension boils down to a classic debate in sports: do we judge players by their highest peak or their overall body of work?

The Modern Center and Embiid’s Role

The NBA has changed dramatically, and Joel Embiid embodies the modern center. Unlike traditional big men who camped near the rim, Embiid can handle the ball, shoot fadeaways, and space the floor. In today’s game, where versatility is king, Embiid’s style fits perfectly. This also boosts his case historically, as the definition of a “great center” has evolved.

Still, versatility cannot mask the fact that availability remains the best ability. Until Embiid proves he can dominate across multiple postseasons, the debate around his historical placement will never die.

Injuries and Narrative: The LeBron and Jokic Comparisons

Compare Embiid to players like LeBron James or Nikola Jokic. LeBron has played two decades with remarkable durability, turning availability into a superpower. Jokic, meanwhile, has quietly become the picture of consistency, delivering historic performances while rarely missing games.

Against that backdrop, Embiid’s absences are glaring. It’s not just about what he’s accomplished, but what he hasn’t been on the floor long enough to attempt. That absence becomes part of his story — a story that may haunt his NBA legacy forever.

The Fans’ Perspective: Admiration vs. Frustration

Among fans, emotions are mixed. Many adore Joel Embiid for his skill, personality, and resilience in the face of repeated setbacks. But others grow frustrated, questioning whether his body will ever allow him to fulfill his immense talent. Social media erupts every time Embiid goes down clutching his knee or limps off the court. The admiration is real — but so is the exhaustion. In some ways, Embiid represents the eternal hope of “what could be.” That hope keeps his supporters loyal, but it also keeps critics loud.

A Place in History: Secure or Shaky?

The truth is, ranking Embiid in the Top 20 Greatest Centers of All Time is both an acknowledgment of his extraordinary skills and a gamble on his potential. If he remains healthy and finally leads the 76ers deep into the playoffs, this ranking might even feel too low in hindsight. But if injuries continue to rob him of his prime years, history may not be so kind.

The duality of Embiid’s career — unstoppable dominance paired with constant fragility — makes him one of the most fascinating figures in basketball today.

Conclusion: The Question That Refuses to Go Away

So, is Joel Embiid truly one of the Top 20 Greatest Centers in NBA history? On talent alone, absolutely. On durability and playoff success, the answer is far murkier. What’s undeniable is that Embiid’s story is unfinished, and the final chapters will depend on his health more than anything else. Until then, the question lingers: how many more times will Joel Embiid fall to injury before he can finally reach true glory?