Sixers: Reviewing Joel Embiid’s MVP case with 18 games left

The Sixers are 40-24, putting them three games out of first place in the Eastern Conference. James Harden has yet to lose with PHILA striped across his chest, and Joel Embiid‘s MVP candidacy continues to gain momentum after his 43-point masterclass on Monday night.

Right now, Embiid is the betting favorite to usurp Nikola Jokic as the league’s MVP, though Jokic has certainly provided stringent competition on that front. The Sixers’ All-Star is averaging 29.7 points (making him the league leader), 11.2 rebounds, 4.3 assists, 1.1 steals, and 1.4 blocks on .492/.351/.820 shooting splits.

Where does Joel Embiid’s MVP case stand with the Sixers’ home stretch fast approaching?

Embiid has been the national media’s favorite all season, and deservingly so. He’s probably the league’s most dominant per-minute scorer. Defenses just can’t guard him straight up. People complain about the whistle, but Embiid hardly ever goes to the free throw line without earning the trip. His mix of size, skill, and physicality is one of one.

He is also mounting his annual All-Defense campaign, pulling down a healthy dose of rebounds, and making the best passes of his career. The game has slowed down for Embiid, and his skill level continues to grow each year. He’s a guard in Shaq’s body, and those claiming Embiid’s MVP case is zilch are simply arguing in bad faith.

With one month left on the regular season schedule, here’s how the race is shaping up.