After years of coming close, it seemed like Joel Embiid of the Philadelphia 76ers could possibly win the MVP trophy this season.
Things have changed a bit because the competition is just so tough with Luka Doncic breaking records, Giannis Antetokounmpo continuing to impress, and Jayson Tatum becoming a household name.
But Embiid is no slouch and he is still playing some of the best ball of his career.
Joel Embiid in the @Sixers win!
42 PTS
11 REB
5 AST pic.twitter.com/ayADr5ej0X— NBA (@NBA) January 3, 2023
On Monday night, Embiid was good for 42 points, 11 rebounds, and 5 assists.
He shot 62.5% from the field and 66.7% from the three-point line.
The 76ers were able to pull out a win against the New Orleans Pelicans, partly because of just how well Embiid was on the floor.
So, what are the chances of him and his team reaching a level they never have before?
Right now, the 76ers are disappointed with where they’re at.
They are currently the 5th team in the East with a 22-14 record.
Compare that to where things were at the end of last season: they were the 4th team in the East with a 51-31 record.
They have not transcended what came before and they are still sitting in the middle of the pack.
All summer long, Embiid, James Harden, Doc Rivers, and others said that this would be their year and they were going to finally deliver a strong playoff run to the fans, possibly even making the Finals.
But, so far the team is still good but not great.
As for Embiid, he is obviously playing his heart out and very intent on being all that he can be, but the team is still struggling to rise above the Cleveland Cavaliers, Milwaukee Bucks, and others.
Fans are both excited and frustrated by what they see from the 76ers.
NEXT: Joel Embiid Has Had A December To Remember