NBA NEWS: An unexpected portrayal As per a Multiple report this morning, the Denver Nuggets have officially announced the departure of their incredible world-class forward to the Boston Celtics on a $255.9 million, six-year contract.

Joel Embiid opened up on Team USA being seeded in the same group as Serbia, which means they’ll get a crack at taking down reigning league MVP Nikola Jokic. Embiid and Jokic have had a fierce rivalry in recent seasons, especially over league MVP trophies, but Embiid isn’t adding any extra importance to the game against Jokic and Serbia.

“I don’t care about Jokic. I’m playing for my national team. That’s what it’s all about. We’re focusing on ourselves and trying to make sure everyone’s on the same page. When we get there, we all know what we got to focus on.”

Embiid sat on the sidelines last season as Jokic picked up his third MVP trophy in four seasons, outlasting Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and Luka Doncic for the honor. The season started with Embiid having a runaway lead when it came to the MVP race, averaging 34.7 points, 11.0 rebounds, and 5.6 assists with a 31-8 win-loss record when he was in the lineup.

Jokic averaged 26.4 points, 12.4 rebounds, and 9.0 assists to ultimately seal the award with a combination of team record, advanced stats, and tangible impact. The Serbian center didn’t play for the national team last year when they won Gold at the 2023 FIBA World Cup, so it’s a dangerous team made all the more dangerous with Jokic’s inclusion.

Team USA will be the runaway favorites, but if there’s a national team that could push the limits on Team USA, it’s Serbia.

Joel Embiid Shared His True Thoughts On Representing Team USA

Joel Embiid made a controversial decision to represent Team USA over France, with French legends even trashing Embiid for his decision. He’s more American than he is French, given his schooling and entire professional career has been spent in the USA.

Embiid takes pride in representing Team USA and being an Olympian for the country, reflecting on the same in an interview after the first day of scrimmages.

“It means so much. It’s been a dream for a long time. It’s an electric group of guys, especially with such great players and the type of talent that you have. It’s fun to be a part of… Just enjoying it. I play against them so I feel like I know a lot about them, but just being around them, and learning how to play with each other.”