Golden State Warriors forward Draymond Green knows exactly how Joel Embiid was able to explode for 40 points and 13 rebounds in Game 2 of the Philadelphia 76ers-Atlanta Hawks series. it's quite simple, actually: he's pissed.
Well, who wouldn't be if they were on Embiid's shoes? The Sixers big man was so close to winning the NBA MVP award, but all his efforts went for naught after Nikola Jokic bagged the honor. Heck, even Warriors superstar Stephen Curry had more first place votes than JoJo even though he still ended up being the runner-up!
Green knows Embiid was disappointed with the snub, and the Sixers center showed it with his play in Game 2. The Hawks, unfortunately, were on the receiving end of the statement performance from JoJo.
Joel pissed they didn’t vote him for MVP. Showed it tonight! Carried his troops!
— Draymond Green (@Money23Green) June 9, 2021
Aside from his 40/13 outing, Joel Embiid also recorded two assists, two steals and one block in 35 minutes of play. Despite the Sixers bench struggling, the 27-year-old's dominant play kept Philly afloat and prevented the Hawks from completing their comeback–a true MVP-like performance as the Warriors forward said it.
Of course after the game, Embiid expressed his frustration that he didn't win the award. However, he emphasized he is ready to move on and lead his team to the most important silverware of all: the Larry O'Brien trophy.
“It’s disappointing, because as a player you work hard for moments like this. But then again, it’s out of my control. There’s nothing I can do about it. I just gotta come out every year and just be ready to do my job,” Embiid said, per Derek Bodner of The Athletic.
The Hawks can only hope that Embiid won't stay pissed all series long, or else they have to find a new way to stop him because they couldn't in Game 2.
As for Draymond Green, it looks like he and the Warriors will enjoy watching the playoffs with all the drama unfolding.
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