Joel Embiid's no-show, Nikola Jokic's reticence and a national perspective on Western Conference

Nuggets Ink

In the latest edition of the Nuggets Ink podcast, beat writer Mike Singer and deputy sports editor Matt Schubert are joined by ESPN NBA reporter Ohm Youngmisuk in the wake of the Nuggets-76ers showdown that wasn't. Among the topics discussed: + The much-anticipated face-off between MVP front-runners Nikola Jokic and Joel Embiid turned out to be a dud, with Embiid unable to play due to a calf injury. What impact does Embiid's DNP have on the MVP race? Is the award now Jokic's to lose? Or will this come down to how things shake out over the next two weeks? + The MVP debate has become increasingly toxic in recent weeks — a development that appears to be grating on both Jokic and Embiid. Do both players care more about winning the award than they let on? + The Western Conference standings remain incredibly tight below the top three seeds. Which teams do the Nuggets want to avoid most in the first round? Should Denver really want to avoid the Lakers? Can the Mavs get it together soon enough to be a threat? Is Golden State still a juggernaut to be feared? + What is the trust level with the Nuggets in the postseason? And who can coach Michael Malone trust come playoff time?