Nikola Jokic, who has an NBA Finals MVP and a championship ring, faced off against Joel Embiid, who is earnestly working to match those achievements. In their latest encounter, Embiid led the Philadelphia 76ers to a 126-121 victory over Jokic’s Denver Nuggets during Tuesday’s NBA action, contributing 41 points and 10 assists.
Jokic, in his role, scored 25 points and grabbed 19 rebounds, 11 of which were offensive. Embiid appreciated the sportsmanship, noting the ongoing fan debates on Twitter but emphasizing his respect for Jokic, the reigning Finals MVP. Embiid also expressed confidence in his own abilities.
“It’s funny, because Twitter, we have a war going on between Philly fans and Denver fans,” Embiid said. “It’s funny because both of us are just like, who cares? We want to play basketball and win some games. But he deserves (the praise). Until you knock him down, that’s the best in the league. He’s the finals MVP. Until you take that away, he can claim that. But then again, I also believe in myself.”
Tyrese Maxey and Tobias Harris added 25 and 24 points, respectively, for the Sixers, with Embiid making crucial plays in the final stages. His three-point play extended the Sixers’ lead, and a subsequent 3-pointer further demonstrated their strength with a healthy Embiid, even against the reigning NBA champions.
NBA NEWS & SCORES: Nikola Jokic, Denver Nuggets, Joel Embiid, Philadelphia 76ers Updates
A late foul by Embiid on Michael Porter Jr. gave the Nuggets a glimmer of hope, but time ran out for a full comeback.
Jokic, a two-time NBA MVP, was outperformed last season by Embiid for the award. Embiid currently leads the league in scoring, while Jokic averages 25.5 points per game and has helped Denver to one of the best records in the NBA. Embiid’s 18 consecutive 30-point games have tied him with Elgin Baylor for the sixth-longest streak in NBA history.
“I’m not playing against him, I’m playing against Philadelphia,” Jokic said. “It was a good matchup.”
NBA NEWS & SCORES: Nikola Jokic, Denver Nuggets, Joel Embiid, Philadelphia 76ers Updates
76ers coach Nick Nurse anticipated a memorable game, and it lived up to expectations with a high-scoring, exciting first half that ended in a 78-all tie.
“The card tonight is more than just the big heavyweight matchup,” Nurse said. “There’s a little bit more going on. I think it’s going to be worth going out there for tonight to watch it.”
The game, watched by a national audience and basketball legend Julius Erving, saw both teams deliver outstanding performances. Embiid and Maxey’s early offensive contributions were matched by Jokic and Jamal Murray, who finished with 17 points and 10 assists.
The contest showcased why both Embiid and Jokic are strong contenders for another MVP award. The first half ended with the teams tied, following a high-intensity, high-scoring game.
“This is my first time with this team against these guys,” Nurse said. “Where are we compared to these guys? What’s it look like up close? I hope we can get something out of that.”
NBA NEWS & SCORES: Nikola Jokic, Denver Nuggets, Joel Embiid, Philadelphia 76ers Updates
Nurse viewed the match as a benchmark for his team against top-tier competition, looking to gauge where the 76ers stood in comparison. The result was a hard-earned victory for Philadelphia.
Looking ahead, the Nuggets face the Boston Celtics on the road for their Friday game, while the 76ers are set to visit the Orlando Magic on the same day.
