Here Are the MVP Odds For Sixers’ Joel Embiid

The 2025-2026 NBA season is set to begin in less than a month, with early predictions already emerging for the 2026 Most Valuable Player award. According to DraftKings Sportsbook, Philadelphia 76ers star Joel Embiid has odds of +10000 to win the MVP, placing him as the eleventh-top option, while Nikola Jokic leads with +220 odds.

Embiid's recent performance has been impacted by injuries; last season, he averaged 23.8 points, 8.2 rebounds, and 4.5 assists over 19 games, contributing to the 76ers' disappointing 24-58 record. He underwent arthroscopic knee surgery in April and, although active in team practices, has no set timetable for his return to games.

A key factor in Embiid's MVP eligibility is the NBA requirement to play at least 65 regular-season games, which he has met only twice in his nine-year career. When healthy, he has demonstrated elite performance, averaging 34.7 points, 11.0 rebounds, and 5.6 assists in the 2023-2024 season despite being limited to 39 games.

Several challenges could hinder Embiid's MVP campaign, including ongoing concerns about his left knee and the 76ers' league-high sixteen back-to-back games, which may necessitate load management and make it difficult to reach the 65-game threshold. Additionally, the team lacks depth in the backcourt, and players like Adem Bona, Andre Drummond, and Trendon Watford do not match Embiid's overall impact, even with productive teammates Tyrese Maxey and Paul George.

Realistically, the 76ers are hoping for Embiid to be available for 40 to 60 games, which could help lead the team back to the playoffs and improve his MVP standing, though his current situation is not optimal for reclaiming the award due to injury risks and team dynamics.