The NBA has faced significant controversy over its 65-game rule. The league requires players to appear in at least 65 games to be eligible for any major award, including the MVP award.
On Thursday, the NBA announced that Los Angeles Lakers star Luka Dončić and Detroit Pistons star Cade Cunningham are now eligible for those end-of-season accolades. Both players filed “extraordinary circumstances” grievances with the league, and the NBA ruled in their favor.
That, however, was not the case with Minnesota Timberwolves’ star Anthony Edwards, and his head coach was none too pleased.
Timberwolves Head Coach Chris Finch Argues for Anthony Edwards
After learning the news, Dončić expressed gratitude for the opportunity to compete for one of the league’s top awards.
“I am grateful to the NBPA for advocating on my behalf and to the NBA for their fair decision,” Dončić wrote.
“It was so important to me to be present for the birth of my daughter in December, and I appreciate Mark [Walter], Jeanie [Buss], Rob [Pelinka], JJ [Redick], 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 NBA’s ruling on Dončić and Cunningham’s grievances shocked many in the NBA, especially the Minnesota Timberwolves, as Edwards did not receive the same ruling, and coach Chris Finch did not sound happy with the decision.
Finch stood up for his star player.
“It sure would be nice to hear an explanation as to why Anthony was denied his 65 games, particularly when you look at the history of Anthony, who plays all the time and has played all the time,” Finch said.
“I’m not sure why we have a rule if we can have an appeals process that is overturned in two-thirds of cases that were held before it. It feels more like a suggestion than a rule.”
Finch made sure not to diminish the other candidates.
“Again, those guys are super deserving and their injuries are legitimate,” Finch explained. “It has nothing to do with them, but so are Anthony’s and Anthony’s situation. We’ve never rested him. That’s now how he’s been. It just feels a little unfortunate that has was the only one left out.”
Edwards may not have been the frontrunner for the award and likely wouldn’t win even if eligible, but Finch’s frustration is understandable, since his superstar isn’t even allowed to be considered while Dončić and Cunningham could potentially win.
Edwards played 61 games, averaging 28.8 points, 5.0 rebounds, and 3.7 assists, shooting 48.9% from the field and 39.9% from three.
The Timberwolves, who finished 49-33, earned the sixth seed and will face the Denver Nuggets. Tip-off is 3:30 p.m. ET on Saturday, and the game will air on Prime Video. Fans can look forward to an intense playoff matchup.
