Thu Feb 05 00:30:00 UTC 2026: ### Headline: Jokić’s Injury and the 65-Game Rule Shake Up MVP Race, Dončić Rises

The Story:

Nikola Jokić’s recent knee injury and the NBA’s new 65-game eligibility rule for awards are significantly impacting the MVP race. Jokić, who was a frontrunner, now faces the challenge of playing nearly every remaining game to qualify. This situation has opened the door for other contenders, most notably Luka Dončić, who has surged to No. 2 in the Kia MVP Ladder, boosted by impressive scoring performances.

Key Points:

  • Nikola Jokić is returning from a knee injury but has minimal wiggle room to miss any more games due to the 65-game rule.
  • Luka Dončić has climbed to No. 2 in the MVP Ladder, showcasing exceptional scoring, including a 46-point game against the Bulls.
  • Shai Gilgeous-Alexander currently holds the No. 1 spot in the MVP Ladder.
  • The article draws a parallel between Jokić’s situation and Bill Walton’s 1977-78 season, where an injury impacted his MVP campaign, although no minimum game requirement existed then.
  • Other players mentioned in the MVP Ladder include Victor Wembanyama (No. 4) and Jaylen Brown (No. 6).

Key Takeaways:

  • The 65-game rule adds a new layer of complexity to MVP considerations, potentially disqualifying otherwise deserving players like Jokić.
  • Dončić’s rise highlights his exceptional performance and positions him as a strong MVP contender if Jokić falters.
  • The MVP race is dynamic, with the standings of multiple players shifting weekly based on performance and team success.
  • Performances against top contenders, such as the upcoming Nuggets vs. Thunder game (Jokić vs. Gilgeous-Alexander), carry significant weight in the MVP race narrative.

Impact Analysis:

The 65-game rule has the potential to reshape how the NBA values player availability alongside performance in MVP considerations. If a player like Jokić is ultimately disqualified despite stellar performance when healthy, it could lead to discussions and potential revisions of the rule in future seasons. Furthermore, it places increased pressure on teams to manage player health strategically while navigating eligibility requirements. Dončić rise to the top may be short lived if the Lakers do not rise in the standings.

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