Joel Embiid is in the MVP conversation this year leading the Philadelphia 76ers to the top of the Eastern Conference. The superstar center explained the reason behind his resurgence this year, after a poor run during last season.

The All-Star center admitted Shaquille O’Neal’s criticism helped him realize that he can be an MVP-caliber player. At the top of that, Embiid said he’s undoubtedly the MVP this season talking to Shams Charania of Stadium and The Athletic.

“There’s no doubt (I’m MVP). I’ve been dominant all season. I’m not going to stop,” the Sixers superstar said. The 27-year-old is averaging 30.1 points on 38.7 percent three-point shooting, 11.3 rebounds and 3.2 assists per contest this season.

He’s having a career-year despite missing 18 games with a bone bruise. Nikola Jokic, another center, is also among the favorites to win the award this year.

However, Embiid is campaigning actively claiming he’s the best player of the regular season. Jokic also has a great season averaging career-highs with 26.4 points, 11 rebounds and 8.7 assists per game for the Nuggets.