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Doncic, Cunningham Appeal 65-Game Rule for Awards

4/18/2026

Summary

Doncic and Cunningham Appeal

Luka Doncic of the Lakers and Cade Cunningham of the Pistons are eligible for NBA end-of-season awards after appealing the 65-game rule.
Doncic played 64 games, missing two for his daughter's birth.
Cunningham played 63 games, sidelined by a collapsed lung.
Anthony Edwards' appeal was denied, affecting All-NBA selections.
Doncic and Cunningham are expected to make All-NBA teams, but Doncic's playoff status remains uncertain because of a hamstring injury.

Summary

Gilgeous-Alexander MVP Surge

Shai Gilgeous-Alexander reclaimed the NBA MVP lead after guiding the Oklahoma City Thunder to a league-best 64-18 record and averaging 31.1 points.
Victor Wembanyama of the San Antonio Spurs finished third in MVP rankings, produced multiple 40-point games, and led the league in blocked shots.
Draymond Green endorsed Shai Gilgeous-Alexander for MVP and acknowledged Victor Wembanyama's potential, noting the Spurs' significant improvement.

History

Historical Context

The NBA implemented the 65-game rule in 2023 to enhance player participation for award eligibility, a response to ongoing debates about load management and player health. This rule emerged from historical tensions, notably after the 2012 incident involving coach Gregg Popovich, who was fined for resting star players. The rule's implications could reshape award criteria and influence future player contracts.

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Doncic and Cunningham Appeal

Luka Doncic of the Lakers and Cade Cunningham of the Pistons are eligible for NBA end-of-season awards after appealing the 65-game rule.
Doncic played 64 games, missing two for his daughter's birth.
Cunningham played 63 games, sidelined by a collapsed lung.
Anthony Edwards' appeal was denied, affecting All-NBA selections.
Doncic and Cunningham are expected to make All-NBA teams, but Doncic's playoff status remains uncertain because of a hamstring injury.

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