NBA’s 65-Game Rule Faces Criticism
The NBA might need to rethink its requirement that players must participate in 65 games to qualify for major accolades.
LeBron James has become the most notable casualty of this rule, which aims to motivate players to miss fewer games. Unfortunately, it also leads to some of the league’s top talent being excluded from awards like MVP, Defensive Player of the Year, Most Improved Player, and All-NBA selections.
Recently, James missed his 18th game due to arthritis in his left foot, ultimately halting his impressive streak of being named to the All-NBA team for 21 consecutive seasons.
He’s not alone—stars like Giannis Antetokounmpo, Austin Reaves, and Jaylen Williams also find themselves unable to compete for honors this season.
Other prominent names are edging close to a similar fate. Nikola Jokic, a leading candidate for MVP, could be ineligible if he misses two more games. Victor Wembanyama, expected to contend for Defensive Player of the Year, faces disqualification if he sits out four additional games. Stephen Curry needs to play in four of his next upcoming games to meet the threshold, while Kawhi Leonard is just one game behind him.
As of now, over a third of the season remains, translating to about 27 to 30 games for most teams.
It raises concerns—like if an MVP is awarded by default or if the league’s best defensive player misses too many games and goes unrecognized. Additionally, there are ramifications for players aiming for supermax contracts, as missing out on All-NBA recognition can be costly.
The intention behind this rule may have been good, but it’s evident that it could have unforeseen consequences.
CJ McCollum, the former president of the National Basketball Players Association (NBPA), expressed disappointment over the situation impacting major players. He noted that injuries are simply part of the game and many athletes strive to entertain their fans each night. “I don’t think this rule was intentionally designed to hold people back,” McCollum mentioned. “It was meant to promote participation throughout the season, but it’s sad that the 65-game rule has such a heavy impact.”
When asked if a change in rules is necessary, he seemed uncertain, pointing to new leadership under Fred VanVleet, his successor.
There might be a need to distinguish between injuries and rest. Maybe the 65-game requirement should be lowered? Perhaps bringing in a medical expert to assess whether a player’s absence is due to genuine injury or load management could help?
As it stands, a change seems necessary.
Numerous players, including James, have criticized the 65-game rule. “I can’t say Jokic isn’t All-NBA,” he stated on his podcast. “Just because a player missed 30 games doesn’t mean we should disregard his contributions. He’s averaging a remarkable stat line; we have to consider how this impacts players’ legacies.”
James went on to highlight that while players want to be on the court, injuries like calf and hamstring strains are becoming increasingly prevalent. He warned that the 65-game rule could have “catastrophic” effects.
“Imagine having a contract year where missing just one game could cost you millions,” James said.
Tyrese Haliburton faced a similar situation during the 2023-24 season, narrowly securing $41 million by being named to the All-NBA team. He mentioned he’s brought this rule up with NBA Commissioner Adam Silver and suspects that changes might come, especially with Wembanyama seen as a future centerpiece of the league.
Haliburton noted that Wembanyama missed out on the defensive honor last season due to the 65-game stipulation and could face the same fate again. “It’s not fair to deny these opportunities based on health,” he said. “Players genuinely want to play, not sit out.”
Various other players share similar views, including Draymond Green and Antetokounmpo. “Initially, I supported the rule,” Antetokounmpo said. “But now, as I age, I feel like it should be revoked.”
On the opposing side, Lakers coach JJ Redick defended the 65-game mandate, emphasizing the need for clearer guidelines for award voters. Meanwhile, Spurs coach Mitch Johnson argued that both physical and mental resilience is a skill and acknowledged the intent behind the rule.
Silver plans to discuss this topic in a media session ahead of the upcoming All-Star Game in Los Angeles, signaling the potential for it to be a hot-button issue.
Introduced at the start of the 2023-24 season, the 65-game rule was intended to minimize player absences, especially consecutive ones. During the Finals in 2024, Silver observed fewer injuries among star players and expressed satisfaction with the rule. However, it will be intriguing to see how perceptions change over the next couple of years.
Ultimately, the rule aimed to enhance fan experience, yet now it seems to restrict some of the league’s biggest stars from contention, diminishing overall excitement.
