Massive Joel Embiid Game Falls Short in Philadelphia 76ers 2OT Loss to Chicago Bulls

The Philadelphia 76ers lost a nail-biter to the Chicago Bulls on Monday night despite a heroic effort from their superstar and MVP candidate Joel Embiid. The six-time All-Star compiled 37 points, 16 rebounds, one assist, one steal, and three blocks in a 109-105 double overtime loss.

It was BACK-AND-FORTH during the final minutes and both OT periods of 76ers vs. Bulls 🔥🔥🔥@chicagobulls win a thriller! pic.twitter.com/OIHicbwUue
— NBA (@NBA) March 21, 2023

Embiid hit 11 of his 22 field goal attempts and was his typically relentless self drawing fouls, making it to the charity line 17 times and sinking 15 attempts. It was his 42nd 30+ point game of the season and his fifth game with 15+ rebounds. He has averaged an NBA-high 33.6 points per game over 58 appearances this season, all while adding 10.3 rebounds and 4.3 assists per game.

The 76ers are 48-23 and third in the Eastern Conference, thanks in large part to Embiid's stellar play. Denver Nuggets center Nikola Jokic was once the decisive favorite to take home a third-straight MVP, but Embiid is breathing down his neck now. The 76ers have passed the Nuggets in win percentage, and Embiid is arguably the bigger scoring threat and the more dominant defensive player. If voters are tired of recognizing Jokic's unique skillset, Embiid has given them plenty of reason to take their business elsewhere.

The 76ers will travel to Chicago for a rematch against the Bulls on Wednesday night.