The Milwaukee Bucks clashed with the Denver Nuggets on January 11, 2026, in a game that highlighted more than just the scoreboard. Despite missing their superstar Nikola Jokic due to a left knee injury, the Nuggets managed to secure a narrow 4-point lead. Jokic's absence from several recent games has ignited a significant conversation about his eligibility for postseason awards this year.
The 65-Game Rule Creates a Tightrope Walk for Stars
NBA regulations require players to participate in at least 65 games to qualify for major postseason accolades. With each team playing 82 games in a regular season, this rule leaves little room for error. Before the Bucks versus Nuggets matchup, Giannis Antetokounmpo of the Milwaukee Bucks addressed this controversial rule directly.
Giannis Antetokounmpo Shares Candid Thoughts
Reporters asked the power forward for his opinion on the 65-game threshold. Giannis responded with remarkable honesty about the challenges it presents. "I will be honest with you," he stated. "Like 13 years of me being in the league, I think I have played 65 games every year. I am still on track. I think I am gonna still play 65 games."
While expressing confidence in his own ability to meet the requirement this season, Giannis did not shy away from discussing the hardships. "It's hard," he admitted. "If you want to be a really good player, help your team get deep in the playoffs and then come back at it and then again play 65 games, you do it for a couple of years."
He highlighted his own consistency, noting, "Because I have been All-NBA for 9 years in a row. 7 times first team and putting a rule in there does give a break." The athlete emphasized the precarious nature of the rule, adding, "The margin of error is hard. Like, you get one injury and you are off the race."
A Changing Perspective with Age
Giannis revealed that his support for the rule has evolved over time. He mentioned that while he initially favored it during his younger years, he now finds it less supportive as he grows older. He pointed out other players, such as Victor Wembanyama, who might also struggle to qualify for awards due to this regulation.
Despite his criticisms, Giannis acknowledged the importance of having such rules in place. He recognized that they serve a purpose in maintaining competitive standards across the league.
Nikola Jokic's Injury Timeline and Award Implications
Nikola Jokic continues to recover from a left knee hyperextension. He sustained this injury during a game against the Miami Heat when Spencer Jones accidentally stepped on him. Medical estimates suggest Jokic will remain sidelined for approximately four weeks.
His extended absence raises serious concerns about his eligibility for postseason honors. With the 65-game minimum in place, every missed game brings him closer to disqualification. The Denver Nuggets are currently relying on their younger roster members to carry the team forward in his absence.
Jokic's exact return date remains uncertain, adding another layer of complexity to the award discussion. Fans and analysts alike are watching closely to see if he can recover in time to meet the crucial game threshold.
The intersection of player health, league rules, and postseason recognition creates a compelling narrative for the NBA season. As stars like Giannis Antetokounmpo voice their experiences, and players like Nikola Jokic face injury setbacks, the debate over the 65-game rule only intensifies.
