Embiid’s MVP Pursuit Continues
Philadelphia 76ers center Joel Embiid, who clinched his first-ever NBA MVP award last season, is showcasing another dominant performance this season, making him a strong contender for back-to-back MVP titles. However, his primary concern remains whether he can meet the required number of games played. After returning to action against the Houston Rockets and scoring an impressive 41 points, Embiid emphasized that while he still aims for the MVP, completing the season in good health is his foremost goal.
Impressive Stats and MVP Discussion
In the first 27 games of the season, Embiid has averaged remarkable stats of 34.6 points, 11.8 rebounds, and 6 assists per game, with his scoring reaching a new personal career high. He joins the discussion for the annual MVP award alongside other contenders like Denver Nuggets’ Nikola Jokic, Oklahoma City Thunder’s Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, Dallas Mavericks’ Luka Doncic, and Milwaukee Bucks’ Giannis Antetokounmpo.
Challenges with Games Played Requirements
However, according to the new collective bargaining agreement, eligibility for annual individual awards requires meeting a specific number of games played. For this year’s MVP candidacy, players must participate in a minimum of 65 games. Embiid has only met this requirement in the past two seasons out of his first seven seasons. If he wishes to contend for the MVP this year, he can only afford to miss eight more games out of the remaining 44.
Embiid’s Perspective on Games Played
Regarding the limitations on games played, Embiid stated, “The number of games I play is not important. The goal is to stay healthy for the remainder of the season. While I’ve already won an MVP, if I have another opportunity, I will go for it. However, I won’t force myself to pursue it. My performances on the court will speak for me, and that’s the most important thing. If I lose eligibility due to not meeting the games played criteria, so be it.”
Injury Status and Anticipation for Challenges Ahead
Addressing his current injury status, Embiid admitted that his knee still experiences significant pain. Nevertheless, he has no intention of sitting out the upcoming game against the Denver Nuggets, looking forward to a head-to-head matchup with Jokic. He stated, “They are the best team in the league, with the best players. We must make our best effort to secure victory. It will undoubtedly be interesting; I love competition. Who wouldn’t want to defeat players better than themselves?”
Embiid Leads 76ers to Victory
In today’s game against the Houston Rockets, Embiid returned after missing three consecutive matches due to knee inflammation and delivered a standout performance with 41 points and 10 rebounds, leading the 76ers to a 124-115 victory for their second consecutive win. The Rockets, facing Embiid’s dominant display, struggled to find opportunities for a comeback, ultimately unable to prevent the 76ers’ triumph.(LVBET)
