Doc Rivers says the MVP race is over after Joel Embiid puts in 52 points against the Celtics - “The man just scored half our points”
Philadelphia 76ers superstar Joel Embiid certainly staked his claim for the MVP award with an epic performance against the Boston Celtics. With Embiid leading his team to a win, 76ers head coach Doc Rivers shared his thoughts on the MVP debate.
Joel Embiid has been the primary offensive force for the Philadelphia 76ers this season. As one of the most talented and versatile big men in the league, it is no surprise that Embiid is also the league's leading scorer.
While the 76ers star is lauded for his offensive brilliance, he has done a lot more to contribute to the team's overall success. This was certainly seen on Tuesday night against the Boston Celtics.
Embiid showed up for the marquee matchup against the Celtics. Racking up a ridiculous 52 points for the game, the superstar big man led his team to a 103-101 win at home.
The MVP race has been tight, to say the least. However, 76ers coach Doc Rivers was convinced that his star would put an end to any debate. Following the game, Rivers highlighted why Embiid should be the MVP. He said:
"The man just scored half our points, in an NBA game. I'm biased, but the MVP race is over."
“The MVP race is over”
-Doc Rivers https://t.co/mj1bUUDarO
Rivers addressed that he was biased. However, Embiid certainly made a solid claim to being the MVP.
Although the 76ers won the game against Boston, the Celtics walked away with a 3-1 series win in the regular-season. However, with things going back to zero in the playoffs, it will be interesting to see what Philadelphia can do in the playoffs.
Joel Embiid dominates in Boston
Joel Embiid's stellar performance helped the Philadelphia 76ers notch a crucial win. Embiid's 52-point performance was beyond essential in securing the 76ers' win against Boston. The matchup between the two Eastern Conference giants also had value as it could also be a potential playoff matchup.
Along with 52 points, Embiid also racked up an impressive 13 rebounds and six assists. It is also important to note that the superstar notched this tremendous statline on 20-25 shooting from the field.
Embiid had some support from his co-superstar James Harden as well. Harden also racked up a double-double with 20 points and 10 assists.
Joel Embiid with an MVP performance tonight:
52 PTS
13 REB
6 AST
2 BLK
20/25 FG
12/13 FT
84.6% TS https://t.co/qv12Y7AeyO
With three games left in the season, the 76ers will look to close out the season on a strong note. Coming up against Miami in their next game at home, we look forward to seeing another big outing by Embiid.