For two years now, the NBA has required players to participate in at least 65 games to be eligible for the various end-of-season trophies. An idea integrated mainly with the aim of fighting against load management and excessive rest of the biggest stars in the league. But with the injuries of certain major players, this strict point of the regulations could distort the race for rewards a little.
Indeed, Nikola Jokic, the best player in the world and probably favorite for MVP this season, has just injured his knee and he will be absent for four weeks. If he misses 17 games during this period, he will no longer be able to win any trophies (or even be named to an All-NBA Team) even if he plays every game upon his return. Enough to leave Shai Gilgeous-Alexander almost as the only candidate for MVP. But what if the Canadian were also injured and missed four to six consecutive weeks?
Victor Wembanyama could not be elected DPOY last year for the same reason. Even in half a season, he had shown that he was the best defender in the league. He risks suffering the same fate this season since his calf problem sidelined him for three weeks.
So should the NBA really persist with this rule? Or can she just trust voting journalists? If we take the last 15 MVPs, we realize that the media have never elected a player who is often absent anyway.
2025 : Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, 76 matches
2024 : Nikola Jokic, 79 matches
2023 : Joel Embiid : 66 matches
2022 : Nikola Jokic, 74 matches
2021 : Nikola Jokic, 72 matches (sur 72)
2020 : Giannis Antetokounmpo, 63 matches (sur 72)
2019 : Giannis Antetokounmpo, 72 matches
2018 : James Harden, 72 matches
2017 : Russell Westbrook, 81 matches
2016 : Stephen Curry, 79 matches
2015 : Stephen Curry, 80 matches
2014 : Kevin Durant, 81 matches
2013 : LeBron James, 76 matches
2012: LeBron James, 62 matches (out of 66)
2011 : Derrick Rose, 81 matches
Should the limit be lowered to 60 matches? Or just remove the rule? What do you think?
