The 65-Game Hurdle

The competition for NBA individual honors is intensifying, but this year, success depends on more than just high-level performance. Fans and award voters must closely monitor player availability, as the league's mandate requiring at least 65 appearances in an 82-game season has become a major factor in the race for accolades.


Several prominent stars, including Stephen Curry and Giannis Antetokounmpo, have already fallen below this requirement, effectively ruling them out of contention for year-end awards. With less than a month remaining in the regular season, other high-profile candidates face a narrow path to eligibility as they navigate injuries.


Players Currently on the Bubble

Under the established criteria, missing 18 games disqualifies a player from post-season recognition. The following athletes are approaching this critical limit:

  • Nikola Jokić (Nuggets): 16 games missed due to a left knee injury.
  • Deni Avdija (Trail Blazers): 16 games missed, recently back from a back issue.
  • Devin Booker (Suns): 16 games missed following hip and ankle injuries.
  • Evan Mobley (Cavaliers): 15 games missed due to recurring calf strains.
  • Victor Wembanyama (Spurs): 15 games missed after dealing with lower-body injuries earlier this year.
  • Kawhi Leonard (Clippers): 15 games missed related to foot and ankle trouble.
  • Luka Dončić (Lakers): 12 games missed, including a recent hamstring ailment.
  • Cooper Flagg (Mavericks): 12 games missed; recently cleared from a foot sprain.
  • Shai Gilgeous-Alexander (Thunder): 11 games missed, including a recent abdominal strain.
  • Anthony Edwards (Timberwolves): 11 games missed due to ongoing knee inflammation and previous leg injuries.
  • Cade Cunningham (Pistons): 7 games missed, currently sidelined indefinitely.

Confirmed Ineligible Stars

The following players have already missed enough contests to be officially removed from the running for annual awards:

«Giannis Antetokounmpo, Jimmy Butler, Stephen Curry, Anthony Davis, Joel Embiid, Josh Giddey, LeBron James, Lauri Markkanen, Ja Morant, Austin Reaves, Domantas Sabonis, Franz Wagner, Jalen Williams, and Trae Young are no longer eligible for consideration.»