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Players Demand Change to NBA's 65-Game Award Rule
25 Mar
Summary
- Players union calls for reform of the 65-game eligibility rule.
- Star players like Cade Cunningham may miss awards due to injury.
- Rule aims to curb load management, emphasizing the regular season.
The National Basketball Players Association (NBPA) has called for the NBA to abolish or reform its 65-game eligibility rule for player awards. This policy disqualifies players from major honors, such as MVP, if they do not participate in at least 65 games, even due to significant injuries.
Detroit Pistons star Cade Cunningham's potential ineligibility for MVP after a career-defining season, despite a collapsed lung, exemplifies the union's concerns. The NBPA stated the rule unfairly impacts deserving players with arbitrary quotas.
Several prominent players, including LeBron James, Giannis Antetokounmpo, and Stephen Curry, have fallen below the threshold for All-NBA teams. Injuries have also threatened the eligibility of MVP candidates like Victor Wembanyama and Nikola Jokic, highlighting the rule's broad impact.
Players like Donovan Mitchell acknowledge the rule's intent to combat load management but question its rigidity for legitimate injuries. Kevin Durant has expressed indifference, suggesting the focus should be on player health.
The rule, introduced in October, aims to increase regular-season participation and may also influence future supermax contract eligibility.
