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Luka Doncic breaks silence after NBA confirms his 2025-26 awards eligibility
TL;DR
Luka Doncic's eligibility for NBA awards in the 2025-26 season has been confirmed after a review of his situation. He finished the regular season with 64 games played, just shy of the 65-game requirement due to a late injury.
Key points
- Luka Doncic played 64 games in the regular season.
- He was below the 65-game requirement for awards eligibility.
- His eligibility was under review due to specific circumstances.
- The NBA has confirmed his eligibility for the 2025-26 season.
Luka DoncicLos Angeles Lakers
Photo by Julio Aguilar/Getty Images
Luka Doncic’s regular season appeared to fall just short of a crucial threshold after a late injury setback. The Lakers star suffered a hamstring issue and finished with 64 games played.
That total left him one game below the NBA’s 65-game requirement for major individual honours. The rule has become a decisive factor in MVP and All-NBA eligibility.
Despite that, Doncic’s situation remained under review due to specific circumstances earlier in the campaign. A final decision has now reshaped his eligibility.
Luka Doncic reacts after NBA grants eligibility exception
Photo by Cooper Neill/Getty Images
The NBA and NBPA accepted Doncic’s exception request, making him eligible for end-of-season awards despite missing the threshold, according to ESPN’s Shams Charania.
He responded on X, saying: “I am grateful to the NBPA for advocating on my behalf and to the NBA for their fair decision. It was so important to me to be present for the birth of my daughter in December and I appreciate Mark, Jeanie, Rob, JJ, and the entire Lakers organization for fully supporting me and allowing me to travel to be there.
“This season has been so special to me because of what my teammates and I have been able to accomplish, and I am honored to have the opportunity to be considered for the league’s end-of-season awards.”
The decision also applies to Cade Cunningham, placing both players back into contention for major honours.
Q&A
What is the NBA's 65-game requirement for awards eligibility?
The NBA requires players to participate in at least 65 games during the regular season to be eligible for major individual honors like MVP and All-NBA selections.
How did Luka Doncic's injury affect his awards eligibility?
Luka Doncic's hamstring injury limited him to 64 games, which initially put his eligibility for awards in jeopardy, but his situation was reviewed and confirmed for eligibility.
What are the implications of Doncic's confirmed eligibility for the 2025-26 season?
Doncic's confirmed eligibility allows him to compete for major NBA awards in the 2025-26 season, enhancing his chances for recognition despite his injury setback.
