NBA MVP Power Rankings: Who climbs the ladder after Joel Embiid's injury?

5. Joel Embiid

Last week's rank: 1

Joel Embiid and the Philadelphia 76ers were unfortunately dealt a bad hand after it was announced the reigning MVP would need surgery to repair a torn MCL. The former MVP was well on his way to winning yet another award after his magnificent play over this season.

Embiid averaged 35.3 points, 11.3 rebounds, and 5.7 assists per game. Additionally, the seven-footer was averaging just under two blocks a game, proving how dominant he was on both ends of the floor. There is no clear timetable for his return.

It shouldn't be a crazy statement when fans announced that Embiid was potentially having the most dominant scoring season of all time. Unfortunately, he will be out of the MVP race due to his injury and the NBA's 65-game policy.

It's unfortunate the NBA community has lost the undisputable MVP, but now fans are focused on what the 76ers will do with just three days left before the trade deadline ends. The Sixers are currently 30-18 in the Eastern Conference and still stand a chance without their former MVP.

Philly guard Tyrese Maxey has held down the fort while Embiid was sidelined with other injuries and has looked amazing in the process. The former Kentucky Wildcat even dropped a 50 bomb in one of the Sixers' recent games. Despite Maxey playing great Philly is only 1-5 in their last six games.

Without Embiid, the Sixers could opt to focus on next year.