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NBA Awards Eligibility Tracker: Which star players are at risk of missing out under the 65-game rule?

The NBA awards races are heating up. But in addition to the nightly on-court performances of the league’s brightest stars, fans (and voters) will have to keep an eye on whether or not the stars are actually, um, on the court.

Due to the NBA’s 65-game rule in which players must appear in 65 games over the course of the 82-game season in order to qualify for year-end awards, a number of injured stars — including Giannis Antetokounmpo and Stephen Curry — are already ineligible for regular-season honors. In addition, several other notable awards candidates are at risk of losing their eligibility with six weeks — and roughly 20 games — left in the season. Let’s take a look.


Under the league’s 65-game rule, players who miss 18 games will no longer be eligible for season-ending awards.

Nikola Jokić, Nuggets: 16 games missed

Lauri Markannen, Jazz: 16 games missed

Devin Booker, Suns: 15 missed games

  • Currently out with a right hip strain; also missed time with an ankle sprain

  • Remaining schedule

Evan Mobley, Cavaliers: 15 games missed

Kawhi Leonard, Clippers14 missed games

Victor Wembanyama, Spurs:14 missed games

Luka Dončić, Lakers:12 missed games

Deni Avdija, Trail Blazers:12 missed games

Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, Thunder: 11 missed games

Anthony Edwards, Timberwolves:10 missed games

Cooper Flagg, Mavericks:9 missed games


These star players will not reach the league’s 65-game threshold for year-end awards this season.

  • Giannis Antetokounmpo, Bucks

  • Jimmy Butler, Warriors

  • Stephen Curry, Warriors

  • Anthony Davis, Mavericks/Wizards

  • Joel Embiid, 76ers

  • Josh Giddey, Bulls

  • LeBron James, Lakers

  • Ja Morant, Grizzlies

  • Austin Reaves, Lakers

  • Domantas Sabonis, Kings

  • Franz Wagner, Magic

  • Jalen Williams, Thunder

  • Trae Young, Hawks/Wizards




Read full story at Yahoo Sport →