Jeff Hanisch/USA TODAY Sports
The NBA season has come to an end, and many players had standout seasons, the M.V.P. trophy is one of the most looked on, respected, and most anticipated trophies in the world of sports and the game of basketball. History will always look back on the history of this trophy, but with that being said, let’s look into the three finalists.
Joel Embiid, Philadelphia 76ers
The 2021-22 NBA Season was massive for Joel Embiid, he put up 30.6 PPG while shooting 50% from the field, 11.7 RPG, 4.2 AST, and 1.5 BPG. Embiid is the first center since Shaquille O’Neal to win the scoring title, which puts his odds up high to win the trophy. Embiid is one of, if not the best center’s, in the NBA right now and his talent and skill overlap any other player at the same position. In my opinion, there is a large chance we see the 28-year-old superstar, holding the M.V.P. trophy at the end of the playoffs.
Nikola Jokic, Denver Nuggets
The 2020-21 M.V.P. makes another appearance to win the award. Nikola Jokic has proven to be one of the most skilled and offensive playmakers in the NBA. This season alone Jokic averaged, 27.1 PPG, 13.8 RPG, 7.9 AST, while shooting nearly 60% from the field. Unfortunately for Jokic the nuggets weren’t able to make a good playoff statement, losing to the Golden State Warriors, 4-1. In my opinion, Jokic doesn’t take home this seasons M.V.P. although he had an amazing season and brought his team to the playoffs, I think there is someone far more deserving of the award.
Giannis Antetokounmpo, Milwaukee Bucks
Last but not least, Giannis Antetokunmpo has proven that this award belongs to him. Playing 67 games, he averaged 29.9 PPG, 55% from the field, 11.6 RPG, 5.8 AST, 1.4 BPG, and 1.1 SPG. Antetokunpo’s consistency and his overall defensive performance throughout the season has led him to be the M.V.P. favorite. He’s led the Bucks to a great playoff run so far, and he’s taken the Eastern Conference by storm. I’d go far enough to say that if Giannis does win this award, he will be already in my top-five power forward of all time list. There is no one more deserving of this award than him, and in my opinion, he takes it home and becomes a three time M.V.P.
