2018-19 NBA MVP Ladder 1.0: Joel Embiid representing the Philadelphia 76ers early on

4. Joel Embiid, Philadelphia 76ers

Averaging 28.1 points, 11.9 rebounds, 3.8 assists and 2.3 blocks through nine games, Embiid is currently the fourth-leading scorer in the NBA. He’s also on pace for career highs in rebounds and assists, taking advantage of his increase in minutes.

Few players impact the game on both ends like Embiid. He’s already showing substantial growth on offense, cutting down on turnovers, making more passes and looking far more comfortable off the dribble.

His three-point shot has been on-and-off, but that’s fine. As long as Embiid poses a threat from deep, defenses will continue to close out, opening up driving lanes. When they give him space, Embiid can either launch from deep or step into an open mid-range shot.

Post-ups are considered inefficient in modern offenses, but Embiid’s physical tools and skill level make him the rare exception. The Sixers run a lot of their offense through Embiid in the post, and rightfully so. As his passing continues to progress, he’ll only get better in that respect.

With four tough losses to good teams under their belt, the Sixers’ record should improve in the coming weeks. Embiid will be firmly in the MVP and Defensive Player of the Year discussion.