The biggest storyline for the Philadelphia 76ers in their afternoon matchup with the Houston Rockets Monday was the return of Joel Embiid. After missing the last three games due to knee swelling, the reigning MVP made his triumphant return to action.

Despite being sidelined for the past week and change, Embiid quickly reminded everyone why he is front and center in the MVP conversation again. He got to work early on the Rockets’ defense en route to another offensive masterclass. By the end of the first half, Embiid had already racked up 26 points.

The Sixers star ended the game with 41 points, 10 rebounds, and three assists. Along with keeping his historic streak alive, he inched closer to passing an NBA legend in another impressive category.

Monday marked the 42nd time in Embiid’s career that he recorded at least 40 points and 10 rebounds in a game. He now trails Hall of Famer Shaquille O’Neal by one for the sixth-most outings in NBA history. Other names on the list include Kareem Abdul-Jabbar and Wilt Chamberlain.

Monday marked the seventh time this season that Embiid recorded 40 and 10 in a game. The most recent time before this was a month ago when the Sixers’ big man tallied 51 points and 12 rebounds in a win over the Minnesota Timberwolves.

Embiid closing in on Shaq now is interesting timing, as the Hall of Famer recently sent out a message to him on his podcast. The LA Lakers legend called for Embiid to step up and deliver under the bright lights of the postseason.

Following this dominant outing, Embiid and the Sixers have to quickly begin repairing for their next matchup. On Tuesday night, they’ll play host to the Denver Nuggets in a matchup that many around the league will be tuning in for. It will mark the first time this season that Embiid squares off against Nikola Jokic.