Joel Embiid is making a very strong MVP case. The Philadelphia 76ers star is contending for the scoring title and leading the Sixers to a very good record. His health has been a key part of this, as he hasn't missed back-to-back games since November. Soon, though, he might need to sit out in order to save himself for the playoffs.

Sixers head coach Doc Rivers told reporters that he hopes Embiid will be playing tonight against the Toronto Raptors but that he still doesn't know. The answer being so uncertain suggests that Embiid may need to rest for a few games. With the team calling up Charles Bassey from the G League, it seems like they are preparing for Embiid's absence.

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Embiid has been dealing with back soreness the past few games. Sitting him for a few games to get him right would be the safest and wisest move for the Sixers, who are looking to make a deep playoff run. They have already begun to prepare for this and Embiid sounds like he is on board with the plan.

In 57 games this season, he is averaging a league-leading 30.0 points, 11.3 rebounds, career-high 4.4 assists and 1.4 blocks per game while shooting 49.0 percent from the field and 36.4 percent from deep. He is becoming an unstoppable scorer, which should allow the Sixers the chance to finally make it to the Eastern Conference Finals with him leading the way.

The Sixers should be able to steal a win against the Raptors, who are missing their best player, Fred VanVleet, due to load management.