Wed Jan 07 03:50:00 UTC 2026: ### Headline: NBA Awards Race Rocked by Injury and Eligibility Concerns Amidst New Qualifying Rule

The Story:

As the NBA season nears its midpoint, the league’s new 65-game eligibility rule for major individual awards is taking center stage, potentially altering the landscape of the awards race. Several prominent players, including Nikola Jokic, Victor Wembanyama, Tyrese Haliburton, Jayson Tatum, and Jalen Williams, are either already ruled out or at risk of missing the required number of games due to injury. This situation creates opportunities for other players to emerge as contenders, while also impacting contract extensions tied to All-NBA selections, particularly for players like Jalen Duren.

The ripple effects are already being felt, with some players, such as Luka Doncic and Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, seeing their MVP candidacies strengthened by the misfortune of others. Beyond the MVP race, the article also delves into contenders for awards such as Defensive Player of the Year, Rookie of the Year, Sixth Man, Most Improved Player, and Coach of the Year, highlighting players who are exceeding expectations and benefitting from the increased importance of games played.

Key Points:

  • The NBA’s 65-game minimum for award eligibility is significantly impacting the awards races.
  • Injuries to stars like Nikola Jokic and Victor Wembanyama jeopardize their eligibility for MVP and other awards.
  • Several players are positioned to benefit from the absences of others, including Shai Gilgeous-Alexander (MVP) and potential All-NBA candidates.
  • All-NBA selections have financial implications, potentially triggering higher contract extensions for players like Jalen Duren.
  • The article provides frontrunners for awards such as Deni Avdija (Most Improved Player), Jaime Jaquez Jr (Sixth Man), Cooper Flagg (Rookie of the Year), Chet Holmgren (Defensive Player of the Year), and Shai Gilgeous-Alexander (MVP).

Key Takeaways:

  • The new 65-game rule is reshaping the NBA awards narrative, rewarding durability and consistent performance.
  • Injuries play a major role in determining award winners, creating both opportunities and disappointments.
  • All-NBA selections directly affect the financial futures of players eligible for contract extensions.
  • The MVP race is significantly influenced by player availability, making Shai Gilgeous-Alexander the current frontrunner.
  • The Coach of the Year award typically favors coaches whose teams exceed expectations, positioning J.B. Bickerstaff and Mitch Johnson as potential candidates.

    Read More