NBA Awards Out of Reach for 10 Players Due to New Minimum Games Rule

The new NBA rules require players to play at least 65 games (at least 20 minutes per game) to be eligible for the award.

The NBA's new rule requiring players to participate in at least 65 games (with at least 20 minutes played per game) to be eligible for awards has impacted several star players this season. Here are 10 notable names who are no longer in contention for individual accolades:

1. LaMelo Ball: Injury sidelined the Hornets' star for 24 games, including a 20-game stretch from November to January.

2. Gordon Hayward: Injuries continue to plague Hayward, who has missed significant time throughout the season.

3. Marcus Smart: Despite strong defensive play, Smart's 20 games played fall short of the minimum requirement.

4. Mitchell Robinson: Ankle surgery ended Robinson's season early, despite his potential for Defensive Player of the Year recognition.

5. Kyrie Irving: Foot and thumb injuries kept Irving out for crucial games, despite his impressive scoring average.

6. Amen Thompson: The rookie's early injury limited him to just 4 games, hindering his chances for Rookie of the Year consideration.

7. De'Andre Hunter: Injuries have restricted Hunter's playing time throughout his career, including this season's 25 games played.

8. Zach LaVine: A 17-game absence and recent missed games put LaVine out of contention for awards, despite his All-Star caliber play.

9. Bradley Beal: Beal missed a combined 24 games between the start of the season and December, eliminating his award eligibility.

10. Ja Morant: A 25-game suspension followed by a season-ending shoulder injury prematurely ended Morant's award chances.

Bonus: Joel Embiid: The reigning MVP faces an uphill battle due to a torn meniscus, which could sideline him for significant time.

This new rule adds a layer of complexity to award races, potentially favoring players with better injury luck. While it aims to ensure awardees contribute meaningfully throughout the season, it also sparks debate about fairness and the impact on players with shorter playing time due to injuries.


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