There is a very high chance that a center wins the NBA MVP Award since Shaquille O’Neal in 2000, and both Philadelphia 76ers star Joel Embiid and Denver Nuggets star Nikola Jokic have been sensational to begin the season.
They came into the year with something to prove and have not looked back ever since. With that being said, let’s look at both of their individual performances so far this season.
Jokic is coming off of a phenomenal 2020 playoffs in the bubble. He was by far the most versatile player on his team and led the charge to two 3-1 series comebacks. Jokic has made great improvements on getting his body in the best condition, which is the reason behind his all-around, high level of play recently.
Jokic is averaging 25.8 points per game along with 12 rebounds and 9.6 assists on the season. It’s almost a wonderful adventure when you watch him bring the ball past half court and set the defense with his IQ and intensify for the game. There is not one spot on the floor that Jokic cannot play on. He can either post on the block or play at the top of the key. Jokic’s versatility is a big reason why he is a front runner for the NBA MVP Award this season.
Embiid is the peculiar player who has become one of the most exciting centers to watch. Everyone knows how much of a comedian he can be off the floor, but on the court, he has not shown as much assertiveness in the game.
The transition from head coach Brett Brown to Doc Rivers has seemed to benefit Embiid in a positive way. Rivers has found a way to utilize Embiid more on the block and allowing him to dominate the paint with his strength and agility over defenders.
Embiid is averaging 27.7 points per game and grabbing 11.5 rebounds as well. The important aspect of his game is his patience on offense. There’s no settling for long contested jump shots. Instead, he is looking for quality looks and searching for higher percentage shots.
It is for certain that Embiid has heard the critics discuss his lack of assertiveness through the past few years. Embiid’s high level of play thus far has earned more respect on his name so far. As long as he continues to play at a high level, the Sixers will continue to succeed along the way.
The value of the big man continues to evolve thanks to Jokic and Embiid. The two’s ability to play all five positions allows them to be electrifying to watch as they are at the top of the ranks in NBA MVP voting.
For Jokic, the Nuggets are still finding their footing to begin this season. As the team lost numerous role players in the offseason, there’s a lot of voids to fill in. Certainly, Jokic’s high level of play will follow with the rest of the roster. The Nuggets will put themselves in a position to be one of the premier teams in the Western Conference once again.
As for Embiid, it is his job to help the 76ers continue to stride as a top team in the East. His level of play needs to remain consistent in order for this season to be a success.
Embiid should be motivated to have a championship and an MVP trophy on his wish list.
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