Nikola Jokic and Joel Embiid are among the favorites to win the NBA MVP award in 2023-24. Both are putting up tremendous numbers and will almost certainly face off again by the conclusion of the season. After placing second to Jokic the previous two seasons, Embiid won the award in 2023. Basketball fans are constantly comparing how both players are performing, especially when they have a game on the same day.

The Denver Nuggets and the Philadelphia 76ers meet on Thursday night. The defending champions were on the road against the Los Angeles Clippers, while Philadelphia was on the road against the Washington Wizards. Despite completing with a triple-double, Jokic was not his normal self, while Embiid exploded for 50 points against the Wizards.

There was little doubt that comparisons and reactions on X, formerly Twitter, would be on full display. One ardent supporter declared unequivocally:

“Embiid > jokic”

Nikola Jokic ended with 22 points, 15 rebounds, 10 assists, and one steal in 37 minutes. The Denver Nuggets, on the other hand, couldn’t hold on to win the game after being outlasted by the Los Angeles Clippers. Denver had not lost to the Clippers since January 2022.

Joel Embiid terrified the Washington Wizards across the country. The reigning MVP finished with 50 points, 13 rebounds, 7 assists, 1 block, and 1 steal. He made 11-13 free throws and 19-29 shots. Philly needed every bit of his heroics against the Wizards’ defensive rating, which is ranked 29th in the NBA.

Nikola Jokic had his moments, but his squad couldn’t get over the hump. The Clippers’ defensive rating of sixth made things difficult for the two-time MVP.