Saturday's encounter between the Philadelphia 76ers and Denver Nuggets was not only a battle between two of the top teams in the league, but it was a chance for fans to see two MVP candidates in Joel Embiid and Nikola Jokic go head-to-head. And just days after Embiid was snubbed of a starting spot in the All-Star Game next month in Salt Lake City, the Sixers big man proved why he is one of the best around, erupting for 47 points, 18 rebounds, and five assists, including a stepback triple to put away Denver in a 126-119 victory.

By no surprise, NBA Twitter was frothing at the mouth watching this matchup, which showcased so much star power in one gym. Here are some of the best reactions on Twitter:

Kendrick Perkins was fired up, too:

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lebron james nikola jokic

Michael Corvo ·

Austin Reaves, D’Angelo Russell and Rui Hachimura with the Lakers arena in the background, Gabe Vincent Nuggets NBA Playoffs

David Yapkowitz ·

Magic Johnson holding a coaching board with the faces of D'Angelo Russell, Gabe Vincent, Austin Reaves and D'Angelo Russell on it. LeBron James looking serious

Angelo Guinhawa ·

Boy did Joel Embiid make a statement at Wells Fargo. He was 18 for 31 from the field, 7 for 10 from the field, and 4 for 7 from three-point land. Jokic meanwhile posted 24 points, nine dimes, and eight boards. Not a bad line by any means, but it's nothing compared to the Philly superstar.

Imagine averaging over 33 points per night and not making the starting lineup for the ASG. Pure madness. Many thought Embiid should've won MVP over The Joker last season as well, but that didn't happen. The Sixers are on a heater right now, scratching off seven victories in a row. This team really looks to be coming into its own, but in order to reach the Promised Land, Embiid needs to keep balling and that comes down to staying healthy.

As for these two bigs going at it again, The Sixers will visit the Nuggets in late March. By that time, the MVP race will be heating up even more, too.