Since the season opener, a significant rule change has hit the NBA, stipulating that players must play at least 65 regular-season games to be eligible for major awards like MVP, All-NBA, Defensive Player of the Year, All-Defense, and Most Improved Player.
This change aims to tackle “load management,” a strategy where teams rest key players to keep them fresh for the most important parts of the season. However, he rule’s implications are becoming starkly evident, particularly in the case of Philadelphia 76ers superstar Joel Embiid.
As the leading contender for what could be his second MVP title, Embiid is set to miss out on the award, with injuries expected to preventing him from playing 65 games. This has sparked discussions, with critics like Golden State Warriors star Draymond Green pointing out that the new rule seems to be penalizing players for injuries.
“Players are now getting punished for being injured… I don’t think Joel Embiid tore his meniscus by Jonathan Kuminga falling on it. The knee was already swelling up.”
“Players are now getting punished for being injured… I don’t think Joel Embiid tore his meniscus by Jonathan Kuminga falling on it. The knee was already swelling up.”
Draymond Green isn’t a fan of the NBA’s load management rule ️
(via @TheVolumeSports)pic.twitter.com/gPITos1Rms
— ClutchPoints (@ClutchPoints) February 5, 2024
