The Unexpected MVP Frontrunner: How the NBA’s New Rules Could Crown Cade Cunningham
The NBA MVP race is heating up, but a surprising twist could dramatically alter the outcome. Thanks to the league’s recent rules aimed at curbing “load management,” the field of contenders is narrowing, potentially leaving Detroit Pistons guard Cade Cunningham as the sole eligible candidate.
The 65-Game Rule: A Game Changer
In an effort to ensure star players are consistently on the court, the NBA now requires players to participate in at least 65 regular-season games to be eligible for individual awards, including MVP. This rule is designed to discourage teams from resting healthy stars, a practice known as load management. However, it’s creating a unique situation this season, potentially reshaping the MVP conversation.
Current MVP Contenders at Risk
As of February 26, 2026, the top five players in the NBA MVP race – Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, Nikola Jokic, Luka Dončić, Cade Cunningham, and Victor Wembanyama – are all facing challenges in meeting the 65-game threshold.
- Shai Gilgeous-Alexander: Has missed 11 games and has 6 games remaining within the eligibility window.
- Nikola Jokic: Has missed 16 games and has only 1 game remaining within the eligibility window.
- Luka Dončić: Has missed 5 games and has 5 games remaining within the eligibility window.
- Cade Cunningham: Has missed 6 games and has 11 games remaining within the eligibility window.
- Victor Wembanyama: Has missed 4 games and has 4 games remaining within the eligibility window.
Injuries to key players like Gilgeous-Alexander (abdomen) and Jokic (calf) are further complicating matters, putting their MVP hopes in jeopardy.
Cunningham’s Rising Star Status
With other contenders potentially sidelined by the 65-game rule, Cade Cunningham is emerging as a frontrunner. He currently has the most “jokers” remaining of the top five, giving him a significant advantage. Cunningham’s breakout season, where he led the Pistons to the playoffs for the first time since 2019, has already established him as a potential MVP candidate. His averages of 26.1 points, 6.1 rebounds, and 9.1 assists demonstrate his all-around impact on the game.
As noted by Danny Green, a former NBA champion, Cunningham is trending towards becoming the “SGA of the East,” meaning he’s reaching a similar level of dominance as the reigning MVP.
Beyond the Top Five: Potential Dark Horses
If the top contenders fall short of the 65-game requirement, the MVP conversation could open up to other players. Jaylen Brown, Donovan Mitchell, and Anthony Edwards are all potential candidates who could benefit from the circumstances.
The Impact on Player Availability and Strategy
The 65-game rule is forcing teams to rethink their approach to player rest and injury management. Even as the intention is to provide fans with more opportunities to witness their favorite stars play, it also creates a difficult balancing act for teams trying to prioritize both player health and championship contention.
FAQ
Q: What is “load management”?
A: Load management is the practice of resting healthy players, typically star players, to reduce their physical strain and prevent injuries over the course of a long season.
Q: Why did the NBA implement the 65-game rule?
A: The NBA implemented the rule to discourage load management and ensure that star players are available for more games, enhancing the fan experience and competitive integrity of the league.
Q: Could multiple players still be eligible for MVP even if they don’t all play 65 games?
A: Yes, it’s possible. If several players meet the 65-game requirement, the MVP race will proceed as usual with multiple contenders.
Q: What are Cade Cunningham’s current stats?
A: In his career against Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, Cunningham has averaged 19.3 points, 7.8 rebounds, and 6.5 assists in 4 games.
Q: How many games have the Pistons won this season?
A: As of February 26, 2026, the Pistons have a record of 43-14.
Did you know? The Detroit Pistons currently hold the best record in the Eastern Conference (43-14).
Pro Tip: Keep an eye on injury reports throughout the remainder of the season. Player availability will be a crucial factor in determining the MVP winner.
Stay tuned for further updates on the NBA MVP race and the impact of the 65-game rule. What are your thoughts? Share your predictions in the comments below!
