It’s been a long time since the NBA was defined by a battle of the big men. However, the matchups between Nikola Jokic and Joel Embiid have brought a whole new spectrum to the Center discussion. Winners of the last 3 MVP awards, the two personify the revolution of the position. But, what separates them from other “unicorns” is their ability to handle traditional Center roles as well. After another dominant outing from Embiid against the Los Angeles Lakers, the one place where Jokic holds a significant edge over him seemed minuscule.

Due to his spectacular all-around game, Embiid had one Lakers legend making comparisons between the 2 best Centers in basketball.

Joel Embiid turns Nikola Jokic-esque

The two Centers are virtually the same in production and impact while boasting vastly different game styles. Even though their skill sets are largely similar, their play style still remains worlds apart. But, the biggest difference between the two has been the passing. While JoJo is a solid passer in his own right, Jokic is in a tier of his own.

But, in a dominating victory over the Lakers on Monday night, a growing trend became increasingly apparent. Due to the James Harden trade, playmaking opportunities are available in abundance in Philly and Embiid is ready to take on that responsibility.

An 11-assist outing was a big step toward solidifying his passing credentials and it impressed Lakers legend Robert Horry too. “Embiid with the force. I’ve never seen Embiid play with this much ferocity. He was actually running from the 3-point line to get the offensive rebound, he was pushing guys. He reminded me of this game, he was like, ‘This works for Jokic,'” the 7x NBA champion said on the Spectrum Sports Net post-game show after the 76ers routed the Lakers 138-94.

“Coz if you watch Jokic play, all he does is hit people in the right position. And Embiid is like, ‘Okay, this is what I have to do.’ And then on the flip side of that, he was so good at the top of the key. At finding people cutting to the basket, finding people for 3s.” 

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While the Nuggets stutter a bit in the absence of Jamal Murray, Joel is continuing to build his case for a second-straight MVP. However, his competition is a familiar foe.

4th straight Jokic-Embiid race?

The last 3 MVP races have come down to these 2 men. While Nikola Jokic won the first two times, The Process finally got his last year. But, with a good start for both men, it seems like the two might be battling for a fourth straight year.

Due to the absence of Murray, there is a lot more on The Joker’s plate. However, during his first 2 MVP seasons, Jamal would miss a majority of the time in both years. Could a similar story play out this time around as well?

With a Championship and Finals MVP already in place, Nikola has the momentum. On the other hand, JoJo has MIP candidate Maxey. Who will win?

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