Joel Embiid’s Back-To-Back MVP Aspirations in Serious Jeopardy, as Nikola Jokic Emerges Hot Favorite for the Prestigious Award

Last season, Nikola Jokic narrowly missed out on securing his third consecutive Michael Jordan Trophy, with Joel Embiid of the Philadelphia 76ers ultimately stealing the spotlight. Now, the Cameroonian star is fiercely aiming to reclaim the coveted MVP honor for the second consecutive season. He’s showcasing unparalleled skills on the court, boasting impressive averages of 35.0 points, 11.7 rebounds, and 6.0 assists per game, a statistical feat unmatched by a center since Wilt Chamberlain back in 1963-64.

However, there is a persistent threat that poses a significant obstacle in his quest for another MVP accolade.

Injuries might hinder Joel Embiid’s chances

As per the new collective bargaining agreement (CBA) guidelines, an NBA player will only be eligible for various end-of-season awards, including MVP honors, if they appear in a minimum of 65 games. Embiid, who has already missed out on seven games this season alone, is only shy of 11 games to be disqualified from MVP contention. Therefore, he can only afford to miss 10 games out of the 50 games left in the regular season.

Many think that this is a strategic move by the organization to help him get enough rest and keep him fresh for a postseason run. However, if that is the case, given Embiid’s history of injuries, this plan might backfire. The University of Kansas alum has only played 65 games in a season twice, with the maximum being 68. He has missed the last four games after spraining his right ankle during the team’s victory against the Toronto Raptors. This break has shifted the momentum, placing Nikola Jokic as the frontrunner for the highly sought-after MVP title this season.

Who might win the MVP award this season?

According to the FanDuel sportsbook, both Jokic and Embiid are now +250 co-favorites to win the MVP title. It only took a triple-double performance by the Denver Nuggets superstar while Embiid was recuperating to come out on top once again. Jokic and Embiid have been tussling over the MVP award for quite a few years. Both centers have been impressively dominant this season, presenting a daunting challenge when it comes to picking a clear standout. While the Joker puts his versatile skill set to use to dominate opponents on a nightly basis, Embiid consistently delivers a scoring spectacle in each game. Nevertheless, there is another contender poised to steal the spotlight.

Read More: Joel Embiid Injury Update: Why the 76ers Superstar Could Miss Significant Amount of Time Amid Question Mark Over Return Timetable?

A potential contender vying for the league’s top individual honor is Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, who blew out Jokic and Co. on Friday. The Oklahoma City Thunder, led by Shai’s 40-point, 4-rebound, and 3-assist performance, crushed the Nuggets with a decisive 119-93 win. The 25-year-old is making a compelling case for an MVP award this season. He is averaging 31.4 points along with 5.7 rebounds, and 6.3 assists per game. The Kentucky alum has helped the team to the second spot in the West, just behind the Minnesota Timberwolves.

Who, according to you, should take home the Michael Jordan trophy this season? Let us know in the comments!

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