NBA Grants Luka Dončić Eligibility for 2025-26 Postseason Awards Under Extraordinary Circumstances
Here's what it means for you.
This ruling could influence how player availability impacts award eligibility in future seasons.
What happened
On April 16, 2026, the NBA and NBPA granted Luka Dončić eligibility for postseason awards despite him playing only 64 regular-season games.
The Context
- Extraordinary circumstances provision: This allows players to appeal for award eligibility if they miss games due to significant personal or medical reasons.
- Selective application of rules: Dončić and Cade Cunningham's appeals were approved, while Anthony Edwards' was denied, raising questions about the consistency of the 65-game threshold established in the 2023 CBA.
- Impact on MVP race: Dončić's eligibility intensifies competition in a tight MVP race against Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, Nikola Jokić, and Victor Wembanyama.
The Number
— Points per game average for Dončić, clinching the NBA scoring title for the second time, highlighting his elite performance despite limited games.
Takeaway
As the playoffs begin, Dončić's return could significantly affect the Lakers' championship aspirations and his MVP candidacy.
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