Joel Embiid’s MVP stakes rise as he notches his 23rd 35-point game of the season, matching the likes of Shaquille O’Neal and Moses Malone
The big man's scoring prowess and overall play has been instrumental for the 76ers. Embiid joined elite company as he scored his 23rd 35-point game this season.
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Philadelphia 76ers center Joel Embiid has been on a tear this season, putting up dominant performances night after night. With 23 35-point games under his belt, Embiid has entered rarefied air. Moses Malone and Shaquille O’Neal are the only other centers to have that many 35-point games in a season since the merger. Moreover, both Malone and O’Neal won the MVP award in those seasons.
Embiid’s latest 35-point performance came in the Sixers’ win over the Trail Blazers. The 28-year-old Cameroonian big man finished the game with 39 points, seven rebounds, and four assists, leading Philadelphia to a 120-119 victory. In addition to his incredible performance, he even drained the game-winning jumper with 1.1 seconds left on the clock.
Embiid’s scoring prowess this season has been remarkable, but not just his point total has impressed. He’s also been a force on the glass, averaging 10.1 rebounds per game, and a presence on the defensive end, blocking 1.6 shots per game. His play has been instrumental in the Sixers’ success this season, as they currently sit in third place in the Eastern Conference with a record of 44-22.
Joel Embiid Making Strong Case for MVP with Dominant Play
It’s no surprise, then, that Embiid’s name is being mentioned in MVP conversations. He has finished second in MVP voting for the last two seasons behind Nikola Jokic, and he’s making a strong case for himself this season.
Embiid’s dominance has been all the more impressive given the injuries he’s battled throughout his career. He missed the entire 2014-15 season with a foot injury and has dealt with various ailments since then. But this season, he’s managed to stay healthy and has been a force to be reckoned with on the court.
Of course, there’s still plenty of basketball left to be played this season, and Embiid will need to continue his strong play if he hopes to bring home the MVP trophy. But with the way he’s been playing, it’s clear that he’s one of the best players in the league and a true superstar.
The Sixers will look to Embiid once again on Monday night as they take on the Washington Wizards at home. If he can continue his dominant play, the Sixers will be well-positioned to maintain their position in the Eastern Conference and make a deep playoff run. And who knows, perhaps Embiid will follow in the footsteps of Malone and O’Neal and take home the MVP trophy.
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