Sixers: 5 bold predictions for 2021-22 season

Sixers bold predictions: Joel Embiid wins MVP

This is a bold predictions article, so why not come with the heat? I have balked at the idea of dubbing Embiid a true “MVP favorite” in recent weeks, in large part due to the Simmons fiasco and the Sixers’ ambiguous outlook in the East. But Embiid has been such a relentless improver in his career, that improvement over last season is a real possibility. And, with the Simmons fiasco in full effect, more will be on Embiid’s plate than ever — on the court, in the locker room, and most importantly, from a narrative perspective in the media.

Embiid will have to guide the Sixers through choppy waters this season. Even if Simmons does play, he’s likely to get swapped mid-season. That would presumably require Embiid to elevate the team while it acclimates to a new No. 2 star, be it Harris filling the void, or another true All-Star coming back in return. That will give him narrative favor if the Sixers can still win games. Embiid has, if nothing else, long been able to win games.

There is no denying Embiid’s status as a top-10 player in the NBA. He’s not only supremely dominant offensively, but one of the two or three most impactful defenders when tuned in. In training camp, Embiid spoke about improving as a playmaker, which is only aided by his improvement as a shooter and ball-handler last season. Embiid can already score and draw defensive attention at all three levels. If he can grow even further as a passer — if he makes passing a real emphasis every night — then it’s game over for the league at large.

Simmons could turn up better than ever and be positioned more prominently than ever (see: last slide), but even then, the Sixers are far and away “Embiid’s team.” With increased strife and several holes still present on the roster, another monster campaign from Embiid would have to net him MVP consideration.

He already finished second last season, and one quick glance at his opposition would suggest a pretty clear lane to the trophy. So long as he’s healthy, Embiid’s primary challengers are Nikola Jokic and Giannis Antetokounmpo (who already have MVP awards and less narrative flare), or Luka Doncic, who will have even less help than Embiid in the always treacherous Western Conference.

I am not necessarily saying I predict Embiid to deserve MVP, but I will predict a victory.