Luka Dončić and Cade Cunningham Finally Eligible for End-of-Season Awards!
Dec 30, 2025; Los Angeles, California, USA; Detroit Pistons guard Cade Cunningham (2) shoots against Los Angeles Lakers guard Luka Doncic (77) during the second half at Crypto.com Arena. Mandatory Credit: Gary A. Vasquez-Imagn Images
The NBA announced Thursday that Luka Dončić and Cade Cunningham are now eligible for end-of-season awards and All-NBA honors, despite not reaching the required threshold of 65 games played.
An Exception That Pleases Many
According to information revealed by Shams Charania of ESPN, the NBA and the Players Association (NBPA) ruled in favor of both stars under the « Extraordinary Circumstance Challenge » procedure. This rule allows players to contest their ineligibility when particular circumstances prevented them from reaching the minimum of 65 games required.
The situation was tricky for both players, who fell just below the league-imposed threshold. This rule, introduced to encourage stars to play regularly, can sometimes penalize players who suffer injuries or face other circumstances beyond their control.
Anthony Edwards Denied by Arbitration
Not all appeals ended favorably, however. Minnesota Timberwolves guard Anthony Edwards had also filed a challenge, but it was ultimately rejected following review by an independent arbitrator. This decision highlights that the exception procedure remains strictly regulated and that each case is examined individually.
This announcement comes at a crucial point in the season, as discussions around individual awards intensify. For Dončić and Cunningham, this restored eligibility opens the door to All-NBA selections and other end-of-season honors, recognizing their performances despite having played fewer games than the usual threshold.
The NBA‘s decision reflects the league’s desire to strike a balance between encouraging regular participation and acknowledging sporting merit under exceptional circumstances.
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