It was early in the first quarter. Reigning MVP Nikola Jokic ran across the baseline coming off a pair of screens, like a guard. This year’s MVP favorite, Joel Embiid, chased Jokic around both screens, eventually picking Jokic’s pocket, like a guard.
The big man revolution is here.
Both Embiid and Jokic delivered MVP-caliber performances in the Nuggets’ 114-110 win over the Sixers at the Wells Fargo Center Monday night. Embiid finished with 34 points, nine rebounds, four assists, and two blocks. Jokic had 22 points, 13 rebounds, eight assists, and two blocks.
For all the endless debates over who should win this year’s MVP or who’s better, one thing seemed clear — these are the two of the best players on the planet right now.