2023 NBA MVP Odds: Embiid has emerged as the clear favorite

This year's MVP race may be one of the most competitive races in recent memory. The Sixers' Joel Embiid, the Bucks' Giannis Antetokounmpo, and the Nuggets' Nikola Jokic have established themselves as the top three contenders for the coveted award. Each player has had fantastic seasons and helped lead their teams to the playoffs. Now, voters will decide who will be crowned NBA MVP.

While the bookmakers have their favorite to win, it is clear that the award could go to any one of the three superstars. Below we will break down the case for each player and share how the US sportsbooks see it playing out.

The All-NBA big man launched himself to the top of MVP favorites after an incredible end to the regular season, highlighted by a 52-point performance in a critical late-season game against Boston. Embiid finished the season averaging 33.1 points (led NBA), 10.2 rebounds, 4.2 assists, 1.7 blocks, and 1.0 steals. It is arguably his best season yet, and he helped lead the Sixers to the three seed in the NBA Eastern Conference playoffs.

The biggest reason people like him to win MVP is his play at the end of the season. The Sixers were in danger of dropping out of the top three in the East, but Embiid went on a run that helped them avoid dropping down in the standings. His ability to carry this team has shown just how valuable he is, and it could lead to a 2023 MVP.

Giannis enters as the underdog in the race, but that is primarily due to his team's talent. He led the Bucks to a record of 58-24 and the NBA's top overall playoff seed. He averaged 31.1 points, 11.8 rebounds, and 5.7 assists. His defensive numbers are down, but he is still an elite defender that can change a game with a big block or steal. On offense, he was one of the most dominant all season and finished top five in the NBA in scoring.

The Bucks finished with the best record in the NBA and are believed to be the deepest team in the NBA. Giannis is still their best player (by a lot), but he is supported by Jrue Holiday, Khris Middleton, and Brook Lopez. MVP voters will factor that in when choosing the award winner, and that could be enough to cost Giannis a chance at his third MVP.

Jokic has won the last two MVP awards and appears to be on track for another this season. The center averaged 24.5 points, 11.8 rebounds, 9.8 assists, and 1.3 steals. His ability to generate offense is why he is constantly a favorite for the MVP, especially considering the Nuggets' roster. They have a solid team but lack the star power of Milwaukee or Philadelphia, making their success with Jokic even more impressive.

Jokic is the best three-point shooter of the favorites making him a more significant offensive threat than Giannis and Embiid. Jokic also benefits from his ability to post triple-doubles and will his team to victory. There is no question he has the statistics to win the award, but we'll see if Embiid's strong finish costs him his third consecutive MVP.

While odds vary between sports betting sites, Joel Embiid has emerged as the favorite among bookmakers. BetMGM Sportsbook has him at -210 to win the award, with Jokic next at +250, and Giannis in third at +600. 

Embiid's odds suggest that bookmakers are confident he has secured the award. Still, Giannis and Jokic have the numbers to win the award, and their odds provide a lot of value. We like Embiid to win it, but Jokic +250 may be the best bet. 

The NBA MVP will be announced on May 11, so get your bets in soon!