Joel Embiid unleashed a scoring barrage for the ages, erupting for a career-high 70 points against Victor Wembanyama and the San Antonio Spurs on Monday night. The reigning MVP, proving unstoppable even against the league's leading shot-blocker, cemented his place as a frontrunner in the MVP race and sent shockwaves through the NBA.

Embiid was a force to be reckoned with, shooting 24-for-41 from the field and sinking 21-of-23 free throws. He racked up 59 points in just 31 minutes, leaving the Spurs defense bewildered and fans in awe. His performance marks the highest scoring output in the league this season, leaving no doubt about his dominance.

Embiid's display instantly sparked reactions, with fans taking to social media to marvel at his brilliance and reignite the MVP debate. The comparisons to Nikola Jokic, the reigning NBA Finals MVP and Embiid's biggest rival for the trophy, were inevitable.

"the best in the world jokic wish he could do this," one fan proclaimed, igniting the online discourse. Embiid and Jokic have locked horns for the MVP title the past three seasons, with Embiid finally claiming the crown last year. This season promises another intense battle, and Embiid's recent performance throws down the gauntlet.

Interestingly, Embiid acknowledged Jokic's prowess after the 76ers' win over the Nuggets earlier this month, stating that the reigning Finals MVP is still the "best in the world." However, he also conceded that the title would remain with Jokic until the Nuggets are beaten.

Monday night's display, though, has fans wondering if Embiid was simply playing coy. His dominant performance against Wembanyama and the Spurs, accomplished in just three quarters, suggests a hunger for the top spot that Jokic might need to contend with.

Before the game, Spurs coach Gregg Popovich playfully warned that Wembanyama and his teammates would "hammer" Embiid. But it was the MVP who did the hammering, silencing the doubters and showcasing his undeniable talent.

Embiid's awe of Wembanyama's size and length before the game quickly transformed into a masterclass of offensive prowess once the buzzer sounded. He reminded the rookie, and the entire league, why he wears the MVP crown.

This historic performance not only cements Embiid's place among the league's elite scorers, but also reignites the fiery MVP debate. With Jokic still a force to be reckoned with, the battle for the Michael Jordan Trophy promises to be one of the most thrilling in recent memory. Embiid's 70-point explosion is just the first salvo in what promises to be an epic season-long duel.