In a bid to curb load management practices and uphold the league’s commitment to an 82-game season, the NBA implemented and NBA Stars a new player participation policy for the 2023-24 season, as announced by Commissioner Adam Silver. Under this policy, players must participate in at least 65 games, logging a minimum of 20 minutes per game, to be considered eligible for major awards and honors.
The new regulations affect several prominent NBA stars, rendering them ineligible for postseason accolades due to their inability to meet the prescribed game requirements. Here’s a rundown of notable players impacted by the policy:
Joel Embiid of the Philadelphia 76ers, the reigning MVP, is sidelined indefinitely following surgery for a torn meniscus, making him ineligible for awards this season.
Kyrie Irving, now with the Dallas Mavericks, faced injury setbacks, including a foot injury and thumb issue, which led to his disqualification from postseason honors.
Bradley Beal of the Phoenix Suns, plagued by various injuries throughout the season, exceeded the maximum permissible games missed for awards consideration.
LaMelo Ball of the Charlotte Hornets, despite a promising start to the season, missed a significant number of games due to ankle injuries, rendering him ineligible for postseason recognition.
Ja Morant of the Memphis Grizzlies faced early-season suspension and subsequent injuries, preventing him from vying for awards this season.
Jimmy Butler of the Miami Heat, a perennial All-NBA team member, missed numerous games due to calf and foot injuries, eliminating him from contention for postseason honors.
Kristaps Porzingis, now with the Boston Celtics, missed the maximum allowable games due to injuries, impacting his chances of securing All-Defensive team recognition.
Tyrese Haliburton of the Indiana Pacers, a standout performer despite injury setbacks, criticized the new policy and faces uncertainty regarding his All-NBA team status, which could affect his contract incentives.
The NBA’s stringent 65-game policy has significant implications for player recognition and contractual agreements, highlighting the importance of player availability and participation in the league’s competitive landscape.
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