With a distinguished 77-year history, the NBA stands as a testament to constant evolution. Over the years, the league has transformed into a more captivating and dynamic product. Traditionally, dominant big men shaped the majority of the NBA’s narrative. However, a fundamental shift occurred post-2015, ushering in an era where small ball lineups became the prevailing trend. The NBA has embraced small ball lineups but is now undergoing another evolution, shifting the spotlight back to dominant big men.

This evolution sees these players not only controlling the paint but also orchestrating the team’s offensive plays. Nikola Jokic and Joel Embiid have been the two pioneers headlining this evolution. Both have started the season strongly with their respective teams and a thrilling MVP race between the two looks imminent.

Will the MVP race go down to the wire?

Nikola Jokic and Joel Embiid have revolutionized the center position, each bringing a distinct playing style. Despite their differences, both have played pivotal roles in their team’s recent successes. The two men have battled it out with each other for the MVP accolades in recent years. Jokic won the MVP title in 2021 and 2022. Whereas, Embiid won the MVP title last season. Both have started the season in red-hot form and it’s looking like the MVP race might go down to the wire again.

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ESPN reporter Brian Windhorst suggested the same, when he made an appearance on Hoops Collective. He said, “I feel like we’re headed for another Embiid-Joker (Jokic) showdown. Considering that the Nuggets have played nine games and Jokic nine 20 (points), 10 (assists) games.” 

Currently, Nikola Jokic is averaging 29.1 points, 12.9 rebounds, and 8 assists per game. On the other hand, Embiid has averaged 31.7 points, 10.9 rebounds, and 5.9 assists per game. The duo have led their respective teams to the best records in their respective conferences. Their teams sit pretty at the top of the table at this early point of the season.

Last season’s thrilling MVP race

Throughout last season, Jokic and Embiid competed intensely for the coveted MVP title. Ultimately, Embiid secured the honor with 915 votes, surpassing Jokic, who finished in second place with 674 votes. However, the race wasn’t without its fair share of controversy. Former NBA player Kendrick Perkins completely shifted the narrative from sporting merit to the race of the players involved. He proposed that Jokic clinched his two previous MVP titles due to his “white” ethnicity.

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The eye test suggested that Jokic was the superior player, but Embiid had a superior statistical season. Embiid averaged 33.1 points, 10.2 rebounds, and 4.2 assists per game. Whereas, Jokic recorded 24.5 points, 11.8 rebounds, and 9.8 assists per game. While Embiid had a disappointing performance in the playoffs, Jokic crowned his remarkable 2022-23 season by securing an NBA championship. Who do you reckon will win this season’s MVP title? Let us know in the comments below!

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