NEW DELHI: With the NBA season reaching its midway point, the league's new
65-game rule
is creating waves of controversy and speculation. With several star players facing extended periods of absence due to injuries, questions arise about their eligibility for prestigious end-of-season awards under this rule.
Joel Embiid
, the Philadelphia 76ers' formidable center and reigning MVP, stands out as the most notable figure at risk.
Embiid, who won his first MVP award last season, is currently putting together an exceptional campaign, averaging an astonishing 35.3 points per game in just 34 minutes of play. However, the new rule could jeopardize his eligibility if he misses more than five additional games.
Understanding the 65-Game Rule: A Brief Overview
Commencing with the 2023-24 season, the NBA introduced the 65-game rule, requiring players to participate in a minimum of 65 games and log at least 20 minutes in each of those games to be eligible for awards such as Most Valuable Player, Defensive Player of the Year, Most Improved Player, All-NBA, and All-Defense. Notably, this rule does not apply to Rookie of the Year, Sixth Man of the Year, and All-Rookie.
The rule comes with certain protections against season-ending injuries, near misses in minutes, and potential bad-faith circumstances. Players who fall short of the requirement by missing 18 games may find themselves ineligible for various end-of-season honors.
Players at Risk: Notable Absences and Concerns
As of February 1, 2024, several high-profile players are at risk of falling afoul of the 65-game rule due to extended absences caused by injuries:
- Lauri Markkanen, Jazz: 10 games
- Bam Adebayo, Heat: 10 games
- Joel Embiid, 76ers: 12 games
- Tyrese Haliburton, Pacers: 13 games
- Jimmy Butler, Heat: 13 games
- Jamal Murray, Nuggets: 14 games
- Kristaps Porzingis, Celtics: 14 games
- Kyrie Irving, Mavericks: 20 games
- Evan Mobley, Cavaliers: 22 games
- LaMelo Ball, Hornets: 24 games
- Darius Garland, Cavaliers: 24 games
- Zach LaVine, Bulls: 24 games
- Bradley Beal, Suns: 24 games
- Mitchell Robinson, Knicks: 27 games
- Marcus Smart, Grizzlies: 27 games
Player Reactions and Backlash
The 65-game rule has not been met with enthusiasm from players. NBA stars such as Jamal Crawford and Tyrese Haliburton have voiced their discontent, with Haliburton labeling it a "stupid rule." Warriors forward Draymond Green, on his podcast, expressed dissatisfaction with the rule, especially in light of Joel Embiid's recent injury and subsequent return to the court.
Historical Impact and Implications
The implementation of the 65-game rule raises questions about its potential impact on historical award winners. In the NBA's history, several players have secured MVP, Defensive Player of the Year, and Most Improved Player awards while playing fewer than 65 games. The rule's implications on past achievements and future recognitions add another layer of complexity to the ongoing debate.
(Inputs from agencies)
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