Embiid did not mince words with Jokic. He was not the kind of person who only knew how to talk.
Embiid loved talking trash because he possessed an intense competitive drive and a strong desire to win.
In other words, aside from running his mouth, Embiid also competed against his opponents through his actions on the court.
So, on the very first possession after the game began, Embiid posted up Jokic from mid-range.
People thought Link would go over to double-team Embiid, but the Grizzlies' No. 0, who had dropped 46 points in the previous game, stayed glued to Covington.
On one hand, Link was somewhat wary of Covington's three-point shooting. This undrafted 3-and-D forward had already carved out his value in the league.
On the other hand, Link believed Jokic could handle Embiid himself.
Maybe he would not shut out the Cameroonian prodigy, but he certainly would not let him score too easily.
Embiid caught the ball along the side of the basket. Seeing that Link had no intention of double-teaming him, he boldly turned and rose straight into a jumper!
Jokic contested it, but Embiid still calmly got the shot off.
Swish!
Right from the start, Embiid scored over Jokic.
His polished skills and soft touch sent the Philadelphia 76ers fans into a frenzy.
"He got the first one, just as expected from Joel Embiid! That shot was effortless. It looks like Jokic simply has no way to contend with Embiid."
"Exactly, exactly. Jokic is too slow, while Embiid is incredibly agile. I think this is only the beginning of Jokic's suffering."
The two Philadelphia commentators played off each other like a comedy duo.
Jokic shook his head. He had indeed not been ready on that last play. He had not expected Embiid to attack so directly.
But