NBPA Preparing Proposal to Modify NBA’s 65-Game Awards Threshold
SLUG: nbpa-looks-to-adjust-65-game-awards-rule
The National Basketball Players Association is drafting a proposal that would alter the NBA’s 65-game requirement for postseason awards, according to Mike Vorkunov of The Athletic, who cited a union official granted anonymity.
The plan, expected to reach the league office within the next few weeks, would add exceptions for major injuries and re-evaluate how games played are counted, the report said.
The union’s push follows an earlier NBPA statement asking that the rule be removed or revised after Detroit Pistons guard Cade Cunningham, viewed as having an All-NBA-caliber season, fell five games short of the 65-game mark while logging at least 20 minutes per appearance.
NBA commissioner Adam Silver told reporters he believes the guideline has achieved its purpose. “We always knew that when you draw a line, someone will land on the other side,” Silver said. “Let’s see how the season ends. If one player is ineligible, another will earn the spot. I think the rule is working.”
Critics argue the threshold could pressure players to rush back from injuries to secure contract bonuses tied to end-of-season honors. Silver countered that overall dialogue around load management has diminished, noting that players and teams have “responded” by appearing more frequently. He added that addressing tanking is now a separate priority.
The league and the NBPA have not publicly scheduled negotiations on the matter, but union leaders intend to present their proposed revisions before the conclusion of the current season.
Source: Hoops Rumors
