Joel Embiid has a thing for January 22. And after another monster performance on that date, it’s starting to feel less like coincidence and more like destiny.
On Monday night, the Sixers’ big man delivered a vintage triple-double - 32 points, 15 rebounds, and 10 assists - in an overtime win over the Houston Rockets. It wasn’t just a strong showing; it was a reminder that when Embiid is locked in, he still commands the floor like few others in the league.
This isn’t the first time Embiid has owned January 22. Two years ago to the day, he dropped a career-high 70 points - a performance that instantly etched itself into NBA lore.
That kind of output doesn’t just happen; it’s the kind of night that defines a player’s legacy. And now, with another dominant effort on the same date, Embiid’s personal calendar might as well have a star next to it.
After the game, Embiid joked, “I thought I would have a baby on January 22nd. Me and my wife, we will probably talk about those calculations, and make sure to think about January 22nd.” It was a light-hearted moment, but it underscored something real: this date brings out something special in him.
While Embiid hasn’t consistently hit the MVP-caliber heights we saw in 2023 - when he edged out Nikola Jokić for the league’s top individual honor - he’s still very much a force. Injuries and a lighter workload have kept his numbers more grounded this season, but nights like this serve as a reminder: Embiid can still take over a game when it matters.
Part of the reason his dominance has flown a bit under the radar this season? The emergence of Tyrese Maxey and rookie sensation VJ Edgecombe.
Maxey has taken a leap as a lead guard, and Edgecombe’s athleticism and two-way impact have turned heads around the league. With those two ascending, Embiid hasn’t had to carry the same load - but that doesn’t mean he’s faded into the background.
If anything, this version of Embiid - one who can pick his spots, stay fresh, and still unleash an MVP-level performance when needed - might be exactly what the Sixers need heading into the postseason. A more measured, focused Embiid could be the X-factor in a crowded Eastern Conference playoff picture.
And when he’s playing like this? Paired with Maxey’s explosiveness and Edgecombe’s versatility, Philadelphia becomes a matchup nightmare. There’s a long road ahead, but if Embiid can stay healthy and keep channeling that January 22nd magic, the Sixers could be a serious problem come spring.