Sixers-Hawks Game 2 takeaways: Joel Embiid makes his MVP case

Sixers-Hawks Game 2 takeaways: Joel Embiid is MVP in spirit

Nikola Jokic was officially announced as MVP Tuesday night, garnering 91 of 100 first-place votes and becoming the lowest-drafted player ever to win the award. He earned it — he even got my vote — and there should be nothing but appreciation for how special the Joker is. He’s one of the best offensive players of his generation, and will likely compete for more MVP awards in the future.

That said, Joel Embiid was second place in MVP voting despite missing almost a quarter of the season. He has been singularly dominant in his own right, and was more than deserving of the recognition and praise sent his direction in 2021. Embiid may not have won the award, but in Game 2, he reminded everyone of just how good he is.

The All-Star dropped 40 points and 13 rebounds on 25 shots in 35 minutes. He took Clint Capela to church, and Capela will likely make an All-Defensive team. Embiid has dominated both Game 1 and Game 2 despite having a torn meniscus and experiencing visible pain in his right knee. He is the MVP in spirit, if not in the history books.

Embiid’s gutsy nature and clear desire to win a championship — not only for himself, but for the city of Philadelphia — is what makes him so endearing to the fanbase. He’s a true performer and a joy to watch. He’s one of the handful of best players on the planet, and Philadelphia to be grateful for the gift that is Joel Hans Embiid.