Full Breakdown
NBA Players Association Advocates for Change to 65-Game Rule
3/25/2026, 5:51:48 AM
Core Issue: Cade Cunningham's Award Eligibility at Stake
The National Basketball Players Association (NBPA) is advocating for a revision of the 65-game rule that determines eligibility for individual honors in the NBA, citing the case of Detroit guard Cade Cunningham. Cunningham's potential ineligibility for postseason awards, including a spot on the All-NBA team, has raised concerns about the fairness of the rule, especially as he is expected to miss additional games due to a collapsed lung. Currently, Cunningham has played 61 games this season, and if he falls short of the 65-game threshold, he risks being disqualified from recognition for what many consider a career-defining season.
Background on the 65-Game Rule
The 65-game rule was established through collective bargaining between the NBA and the players' association. It was intended to ensure that players maintain a certain level of participation throughout the season. However, the NBPA argues that the rule is overly rigid and does not account for significant injuries that prevent players from meeting the threshold. The union's spokesperson stated, “Cade Cunningham's potential ineligibility... is a clear indictment of the 65-game rule and yet another example of why it must be abolished or reformed.”
Criticism of the Rule
Critics of the 65-game rule, including Cunningham's agent Jeff Schwartz, emphasize that it penalizes players for circumstances beyond their control. Schwartz remarked, “If he falls just short of an arbitrary games-played threshold due to legitimate injury, it should not disqualify him from recognition he has clearly earned.” Cleveland guard Donovan Mitchell also expressed concern, stating, “We get paid money to be out there, but there’s certain things you can’t control... These are legitimate injuries, so it’s something to look at for sure.”
Support for the Rule
Despite the push for change, some players and officials support the 65-game rule, arguing that it encourages player health and availability. Andre Iguodala, the NBPA's executive director, and Boston forward Jaylen Brown have both voiced support for maintaining the rule. Kevin Durant noted at the 2024 All-Star Game, “It’s just something we’ve got to deal with. I won’t say I love it or I hate it either, but it’s just something we’ve got to deal with.”
Conflicting Reports on Eligibility
While the 65-game rule has strict criteria, there are exceptions that allow players who appear in 62 games and suffer a season-ending injury to remain eligible for awards. However, this exception does not apply to Cunningham, as he has not reached that threshold. Other notable players facing similar eligibility issues include LeBron James, Giannis Antetokounmpo, and Stephen Curry, all of whom have missed significant time this season.
What's Next for the 65-Game Rule
The NBPA's call for reform highlights a growing tension within the league regarding player health and recognition. As discussions continue, the future of the 65-game rule remains uncertain, with potential implications for how player performance is evaluated in the context of injuries.
