Joel Embiid in danger of missing out on MVP award due to 65-game rule

Reigning NBA MVP Joel Embiid ishaving a historic season so far, but he may not be able to win asecond-straight MVP award.

Although it might sound crazy,Embiid is in danger of being ineligible for an end-of-season awarddue to the NBA's new 65-game rule that was implemented thisseason.

This rule was put in place todiscourage stars from resting and being subjected to loadmanagement, and it states that players will be ineligible forAll-NBA honors and the end-of-season awards (including MVP) if theyfail to play in at least 65 games.

Embiid has now missed 11 gamesso far this season, after sitting last night in Denver.This means that under the newrules, Embiid can only miss six more games in order to be eligibleto win the MVP award. The Sixers have 36 games remaining thisseason.

Embiid is currently leading theMVP race, averaging a historic line of 36 points, 11.4 rebounds and5.8 assists in 33 games played.

Philadelphia has been cautiouswith their superstar center, resting him even for marquee games, ifdeemed necessary. Injuries have plagued Embiid in the playoffsthroughout his career, and it has led to some disappointingperformances and finishes.

This year, Embiid may have todecide between playing in 65 games to be eligible for the MVP awardor resting in order to be in the best possible shape entering theplayoffs.