NBA MVP Race Takes Unexpected Turn: Eligibility Rules Could Leave Cade Cunningham as Sole Contender
Published February 26, 2026 | 247sports.news
The NBA’s Most Valuable Player award race is facing a potential shakeup, with a little-known rule threatening to disqualify several top contenders. A requirement that players participate in at least 65 regular-season games could dramatically narrow the field, potentially leaving Detroit Pistons guard Cade Cunningham as the only eligible player.
The 65-Game Rule: A Potential Game-Changer
In an effort to combat load management
– resting healthy stars – the NBA implemented a rule requiring players to appear in a minimum of 65 games to be considered for individual awards. This seemingly straightforward regulation is now poised to significantly impact the MVP conversation.
Current Contenders Facing Eligibility Concerns
As of today, several leading MVP candidates are at risk of falling short of the 65-game threshold. Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, the reigning MVP, has already missed 11 games due to an abdominal strain and doesn’t have a firm return date. Nikola Jokic has missed 16 games with a calf injury, leaving him with limited room for further absences. Luka Doncic and Victor Wembanyama also face potential challenges, having missed 5 and 4 games respectively.
“SGA”, the title holder, has already missed 11 matches out of the 17 “authorized” by the rule. Injured in the abdomen, the Canadian does not have an official return date.
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Cunningham’s Rising Stock and Unique Position
Amidst the injury concerns of his rivals, Cade Cunningham is emerging as a strong contender. He has appeared in 47 of 53 games so far this season, putting him on track to easily meet the 65-game requirement. Cunningham’s recent performances have been exceptional, averaging 27.3 points, 9.6 assists, and 5.6 rebounds in February, including a dominant 42-point, 13-assist, and 8-rebound performance against the New York Knicks.
Cunningham has moved from +1400 earlier this week to +500 now.
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The Pistons currently lead the Eastern Conference by 5.5 games and are only one game behind the Oklahoma City Thunder for the best record in the league.
MVP Odds Snapshot (February 26, 2026)
- Shai Gilgeous-Alexander: -145
- Nikola Jokic: +330
- Cade Cunningham: +500
- Luka Doncic: +2800
- Victor Wembanyama: +3000
Odds from DraftKings Sportsbook, subject to change.
FAQ
What is the NBA’s 65-game rule?
The rule states that players must participate in at least 65 regular-season games to be eligible for individual awards, including MVP.
Why was the 65-game rule implemented?
The NBA implemented the rule to discourage load management
, the practice of resting healthy players for strategic reasons.
Could Cade Cunningham win MVP even if other contenders play more games?
If other top contenders are unable to meet the 65-game requirement, Cunningham could be the only eligible player, increasing his chances of winning the award.