SGA's Return: A Timely Boost for the NBA
The NBA's decision to enforce a 65-game minimum for major award eligibility in 2023 stirred up quite the conversation. While the intention was to curb unnecessary rest for star players, tying awards to a rigid game count was always risky. This season, we're seeing just how close it came to backfiring.
Nikola Jokic, sidelined by a left knee injury, is teetering on the edge of disqualification for MVP and All-NBA honors, with only one more game to spare. Meanwhile, reigning MVP Shai Gilgeous-Alexander is making a much-anticipated return from an abdominal injury after missing nine games, with some room left to maintain his eligibility. Spurs standout Victor Wembanyama is also walking a tightrope with just three games left to miss.
Losing players like Gilgeous-Alexander or Jokic from the MVP race would undermine the prestige of the award. Gilgeous-Alexander is having a historically efficient 30-points-per-game season, while Jokic is averaging a 29-point triple-double, leading in rebounds and assists, and setting new standards in advanced metrics.
Although Cade Cunningham has had a stellar season for Detroit, he's not in the same league as Jokic and Gilgeous-Alexander. Awarding him by default would diminish the honor.
Excluding talents like Jokic, Gilgeous-Alexander, Wembanyama, and Luka Doncic from All-NBA consideration due to game count would be equally absurd. If a player's impact is undeniable despite missing some games, voters should have the discretion to recognize it, especially when injuries are a factor.
Historically, common sense has prevailed, with Bill Walton being the only MVP to play less than 79% of his team's games back in 1977-78. Denying Jokic and Gilgeous-Alexander a shot at the award nearly 50 years later would do a disservice to the game.
OKC's Resilience Shines Through
Despite a rough patch and injuries to their top players, the Oklahoma City Thunder have shown remarkable grit. With Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and All-NBA forward Jalen Williams sidelined, the Thunder managed a 5-4 record in their last nine games, taking down formidable opponents like the Lakers, Suns, Cavs, and Raptors. Even without their stars, they remained competitive against top teams like San Antonio and Detroit.
It's been a team effort, with Isaiah Joe stepping up as the leading scorer at 15.3 points per game, and Cason Wallace delivering outstanding two-way performances. Newcomer Jared McCain has impressed off the bench, while Chet Holmgren, Lu Dort, Isaiah Hartenstein, and Alex Caruso have maintained the team's defensive identity.
Head coach Mark Daigneault praised his team's ability to adapt and stay optimistic despite challenges. "You can't control your circumstances," he said.
"We try to leverage every situation to build momentum. The guys have done an unbelievable job."
Daigneault highlighted the importance of playing within their strengths, ensuring the team remains cohesive when Gilgeous-Alexander and Williams return. "We've made investments during this period that can pay dividends down the road," he noted.
With Gilgeous-Alexander back, the Thunder hold a narrow lead over San Antonio in the West, facing one of the toughest schedules ahead.
Player of the Week: Nikola Jokic
Nikola Jokic has been nothing short of exceptional, averaging 32.3 points, 13.7 rebounds, and 8.3 assists over the past week. Despite not being at full strength, Jokic led Denver to a 2-1 record, outscoring opponents significantly when he was on the court. His presence continues to be a game-changer for the Nuggets.
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