NBA MVP Power Rankings: Nikola Jokic drops, new name joins top two

1. Joel Embiid

Last week's rank: 2

It's time fans take notice of what Joel Embiid has been doing to the league this season.

Despite missing the Sixers' Christmas Day game against the Miami Heat, Joel Embiid has been on a tear all season long. In the games Embiid has played in, he has dominated everyone, including a 51-point performance against the Minnesota Timberwolves.

Last week's performance against the T-Wolves was just the tip of the iceberg for what Embiid has been doing. He's currently averaging 35 points per game and has shot one of the best percentages from the field in the league. Embiid is undoubtedly having a historic season.

Embiid's only concern is health. He has failed to stay healthy through lengthy stretches of this year and has missed some of the Sixers' most important games to start the season. If this trend continues to occur, he could fail to meet the 65-game threshold to win the MVP award.

Despite his absences, Embiid has led Philadelphia to a 20-9 record and third in the Eastern Conference. Fans will want to see Embiid play in bigger games, but it's clear to see the effect he has on the Sixers.

The 76ers next week of games will compile two games against the Chicago Bulls and one against the Orlando Magic. Embiid will be expected to play if he wants to remain at the top of the MVP rankings.

The Philadelphia 76ers and Dallas Mavericks won't get a chance to play each other until February. Until then, both teams will need to continue winning. For more updates on Mavericks basketball, stay plugged in.