January 22nd. A day forever immortal in NBA history. It was the day a young Kobe Bryant would solidify his case as the best player in the league. While others were stacking up awards, Kobe was making his unique case thanks to his incomparable scoring prowess. Fast forward 18 years, and Joel Embiid might be on that same path. But, even after mimicking a historical scoring night, he fell short of some expectations.

2x All-Star Isaiah Thomas took to X when the game was ongoing with a challenge for the reigning league MVP. “Go get 80 on the day Kobe did it!!!” While he did fall short of that feat, his night was as historic as they come.

Even though a perennial MVP candidate and finally a victor last season, Embiid isn’t seen as the league’s best player. Instead, names like Nikola Jokić and Giannis Antetokounmpo have overtaken that discussion. But, like Bryant back then, Joel’s time might be coming. Right now, he’s just building the resume and cementing his case.

The 70-point explosion against French sensation Victor Wembanyama was nothing short of spectacular. In that regard, his performance was Mamba-esque with an array of midrange jumpers and fancy layups. After famously roasting Jalen Rose for the 81-point game, it looks like the Philadelphia 76ers superstar has his muse to tease.

However, JoJo has a chance to do something the Los Angeles Lakers legend never did. For most of the season, he has been at or near the top of the MVP race. Could this performance seal the deal? But, with IT not impressed, could the same standards be held against the 7-footer?

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And how does his performance, which etched out Philly legends like Wilt Chamberlain, hold up against the 5x NBA Champion’s pièce de résistance that continues to inspire generations?

Joel Embiid for 70 vs Kobe Bryant for 81

While a comparative analysis, both performances are truly spectacular. Whether it be from long-range, the middy, the paint, or the charity stripe, the two MVPs were dominant at each level. Even though Bean had 7 triples compared to Joel’s singular one, that could be attributed to size difference alone.

The one caveat against the harbinger of The Process was the free throws, which have become a storyline throughout the year. But, compared to his 21, the 2008 NBA MVP had 18 on his special day too. Both were dominant, legacy-cementing performances.

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LeBron James and NBA Legends Go Wild as Joel Embiid Explodes for 70 on Victor Wembanyama’s Spurs