Joel Embiid Is Back-and He’s Playing Like an MVP Again
Joel Embiid isn’t just back on the court-he’s back to being the dominant force who once had the league in a headlock. After a frustrating 2024-25 campaign that saw him appear in only 19 games, the Sixers’ franchise centerpiece has returned in 2025-26 with a vengeance. And over the last 30 games, he’s looked every bit like the MVP version of himself.
Let’s start with the numbers: 30.0 points per game on 52.1% shooting from the field. That’s elite efficiency for anyone, but when you factor in Embiid’s size, skill set, and the defensive attention he draws every night, it becomes even more impressive.
He’s moving well, commanding double teams, and anchoring both ends of the floor. Simply put, he’s doing it all-and doing it with a level of physicality and finesse that’s rare in today’s game.
What makes this resurgence even more remarkable is the context. Embiid’s body has been through the wringer.
Multiple injuries, grueling rehabs, and the mental toll of starting over again and again. But here he is, not just playing, but leading a resurgent Sixers squad and reminding everyone why he was the league’s most valuable player just a few seasons ago.
Before a recent matchup, Lakers head coach-and Embiid’s former teammate-JJ Redick offered a thoughtful take on the big man’s comeback.
“Not surprised,” Redick said. “Just more so as his friend, you have a great deal of empathy for all that his body’s been through... He’s stuck with it, and I think it’s a testament to how much he loves this game and how much he loves competing that he’s back to playing at this level.”
Redick’s words hit home. It’s not just about the stats with Embiid.
It’s about the persistence. The resilience.
The sheer will to get back on the floor and dominate again. That kind of commitment doesn’t show up in the box score, but it’s a huge part of why the Sixers are having the bounce-back season they’re enjoying right now.
Of course, the road ahead is still long. If Philadelphia wants to make real noise in the Eastern Conference, Embiid will need to keep playing at this level-and stay healthy. But for now, the signs are all pointing in the right direction.
The big fella is back. And when he’s playing like this, the Sixers aren’t just good-they’re dangerous.