Joel Embiid could miss out on second consecutive MVP award due to new NBA rule
Philadelphia 76ers star Joel Embiid is in danger of missing out on the NBA Most Valuable Player award due to a new rule, which requires a player to participate in at least 65 games to be eligible for end-of-season awards, including the MVP.
Embiid, who is currently leading the MVP race, has already missed 11 games. This means he can only afford to miss six more from the remaining 36 to stay in contention for the MVP award.
Fans were disappointed when Embiid was unexpectedly ruled out of the game against the Denver Nuggets. This isn't the first time he's sat out a game against the Nuggets, causing fans to express their frustration on social media.
Not only was his absence a letdown for the fans, but it could also cost him the chance to win consecutive MVP awards. Despite leading the MVP race with an average of 36 points, 11.4 rebounds and 5.8 assists in 33 games, Embiid may have to choose between chasing the award or resting to be fit for the playoffs.
READ MORE: Steph Curry loses cool after LeBron James showdown as NBA legend defies time again
LeBron James edges closer to NBA scoring record with jaw-dropping Lakers display
READ MORE: Kylian Mbappe compares football to NBA and calls for 'best possible solution'
The MVP race includes Jokic in second place, with Shai Gilgeous-Alexander of the Oklahoma City Thunder in third. Giannis Antetokounmpo from the Milwaukee Bucks and Jayson Tatum of the Boston Celtics are also in the mix, while Embiid leads at first. Last year, Embiid won over Jokic and Antetokounmpo to get the award.
Embiid shared his ambition last month, saying he wants another MVP trophy and is eager for as much success as he can get in the NBA.
Joel Embiid is in danger of losing the MVP aware while in the midst of a historical season (No credit)"I have a pretty good chance [at another MVP]," Embiid said to ESPN in December. "I mean, if I have a chance to be in the conversation, why not? I want it all. I'm not shy about it. I'm not going to sit here and be like, 'Oh, I don't care about this.' Anything that I can get my hands on, I want it."
The Sixers have made a surprisingly strong start to the season, despite losing James Harden after he was traded for multiple draft picks and role players.
In his place, Tyrese Maxey has stepped up and developed into a star, playing as the second go-to option behind Embiid.
* An AI tool was used to add an extra layer to the editing process for this story. You can report any errors to [email protected]
Read more similar news:
Comments:
comments powered by Disqus
