NBA: A way-too-early look at the superstars that will define the MVP race

5. Joel Embiid (Philadelphia 76ers)

Joel Embiid, with his towering presence and remarkable skill set, continues to solidify his place as an MVP candidate coming into this season. His dominance in the paint, scoring versatility, and defensive prowess make him a force to be reckoned with.

Having won the MVP trophy last year, Joel Embiid is the hunted, not the hunter.

It is difficult to quantify how much Embiid means to the Philadelphia 76ers.

He not only anchors their defense but also leads the team in scoring. If he maintains his impressive numbers while leading the 76ers to a top position in the Eastern Conference, Embiid could very well be in the running for another MVP title.

The only negative thing that might stop Embiid from going back-to-back is his inability to stay healthy for an entire season. Last season Embiid played 66 games, missing 16 games in the process, which isn’t a bad number but with so many injuries in the past, it is essential that Embiid stays healthy in order to keep his MVP crown!

He is more than capable of playing at the same level as last season and if he does that, Embiid could very well be the back-to-back MVP.