Troubled by NBA?s Crucial Verdict, Ex-MVP Disrobes Nikola Jokic and Joel Embiid for Lakers Champion

In the last few years, the NBA landscape has finally shifted back towards big men. Moreover, the last three players to win MVPs were all big men. Nikola Jokic, Giannis Antetokounmpo, and Joel Embiid. However, there is one stellar big man that has ended up with the short end of the stick for quite some time now. Not anymore, though.

As the legendary Boston Celtics duo explains, they expect a bounce-back year for the 6’11 Los Angeles Lakers. A career renaissance, if you will.

Nikola Jokic, Joel Embiid, or someone else?

For years, players have found success at the wings and guard positions. Ever since the days of Magic Johnson and Michael Jordan, the league has steadily progressed toward the perimeter.

While the occasional big man, like Shaquille O’Neal, has emerged, the general path to success gradually shifts away from centers. As a result, that movement has seen a rise in unicorns.?

Uniquely gifted, these athletes possess the size of a traditional big man paired with the skills of a much smaller player. One of the first pioneers was Kevin Durant. However, one name primed to dominate the conversation was Anthony Davis. But, for years, the case for AD has been one of unfulfilled potential.

The most common cause? Lack of motor. However, Kevin Garnett, speaking on Ticket and The Truth with Paul Pierce, laid down Davis’ chances in NBA’s current landscape. He said, “I’m expecting Anthony Davis to be MVP in these next two years. You can’t let Joker [Nikola Jokic] come in the league and surpass. Anthony Davis can do everything Joker can do, he can do everything Embiid can do”.

For years, the verdict on Davis remains the same: significant player but inconsistent. As Embiid and Joker overtake him in accolades, will we see a bounceback season from the Brow?

Who is the best big in the league?

As the league re-enters a dominant big-man cast, a few names have stood above others. The 4 at the very top of that list are the names we’ve discussed so far. While Giannis has 2 MVPs, a Defensive Player of the Year, and a Championship, his resume is the most secure out of the quartet.

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In a similar vein, Nikola Jokic, too, has cemented himself among the pantheon greats. With 2 MVPs, a Championship, and a Finals MVP, Joker?has silenced all critics. That leaves 2 names.

While Joel Embiid solidified himself with his first MVP this past year, questions about his playoff struggles remain prevalent. Even after a dominant showing in 2020, that included a monstrous postseason en route to a Championship, questions about AD’s character remain.

Can a dominant showing in the next couple of years vault Davis back into the best big, and in turn, player in the league conversations? What do you think? Let us know in the comments below.

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