BREAKING NEWS: Nuggets’ Star Player Unimpressed With NBA’s As Star Player Hits With Injury
Although the new NBA regulations may bolster the MVP prospects for the Nuggets’ standout player, Nikola Jokic expresses discontent with their impact on Joel Embiid. The NBA MVP race has been fiercely contested, particularly between Jokic and Embiid of the Denver Nuggets and Philadelphia 76ers respectively, up until February. However, Embiid’s chances were dashed by a recent NBA ruling.
In early February, Embiid underwent knee surgery following an injury to his lateral meniscus. The NBA’s revised policy stipulates that players must participate in a minimum of 65 games to be eligible for accolades like the MVP title. Although there’s a possibility of Embiid returning later in the season, he will have missed too many games to be in contention for the MVP.
Additionally, Embiid was notably absent from the 2024 NBA All-Star game, where potential MVP candidates like Jokic and Shai Gilgeous-Alexander of the Oklahoma City Thunder were present. While Jokic stands to benefit from Embiid’s disqualification, he has criticized the new policy, echoing sentiments shared by Gilgeous-Alexander.
Jokic voiced his concerns, stating, “Forcing players to compete, even when they’re injured or facing other challenges, is concerning. Embiid’s situation is a clear example of the consequences. I’m not a fan of how it compels players to push through injuries to achieve their goals.” Gilgeous-Alexander, who now emerges as a leading contender for the MVP, also expressed ambivalence towards the policy, suggesting that the league aims to strike a balance between game participation and player well-being.