The entire NBA ecosystem seems to have unanimously decided that there’s no shot for Embiid to win consecutive MVPs, especially after this year’s playoffs where Embiid underperformed, while his most direct competitor established himself both as a champion, and as the top-dog in the league
But the one thing NBA has consistently proven, is that it’s very tricky to predict (notwithstanding the Warriors superserum run), and there very well maybe a future where we’re watching Joel Embiid hoist up that award once again come May.
So what do you guys think, realistically needs to happen with the Sixers, Embiid himself and the rest of his competition this regular season, for him to win a second MVP?
Embiid absolutely can win MVP again this season—the odds being stacked against him gives him the perfect MVP storyline if he can rise above obstacles in his path and lead the Sixers to a similar season as last year (over 50 wins), top 3 seed, big individual numbers while also elevating his teammates. If Harden isn’t out there, that’s what Embiid will have to do to win.
I do think it’s possible. I don’t think the playoff failure of last season will be held against him much. It never has been for Giannis and wasn’t for Jokic.