We're not even seven weeks into the 2025/26 NBA regular season, but there are already a number of star players who have become ineligible for end-of-season awards due to the 65-game rule, as well as several others who can't afford another extended absence after missing games this fall.
In some cases, a player becoming ineligible for All-NBA consideration is only meaningful because it might end an impressive streak -- Jayson Tatum, for example, won't make an All-NBA first team this season after achieving the feat for four consecutive years. LeBron James is in danger of missing out on All-NBA recognition for the first time since he was a rookie in 2004.
In other cases though, a player who becomes ineligible for All-NBA honors also locks in a lesser salary on his next contract. When Jalen Williams missed his 18th game, for instance, it ensured that his maximum-salary rookie scale extension will begin at 25% of next season's cap, instead of up to 30%, saving the Thunder a projected $48MM over the next five years.
Today, we're taking a closer look at the notable stars in danger of not meeting the 65-game criteria and the ripple effect that will have, as well as exploring the Clippers' options with Chris Paul, examining the Warriors' decision to sign Seth Curry when they did, and detailing the obstacles facing hard-capped teams carrying two-way players who are vying for promotions.
Let's dive in...
Kerr’s too selfish to step aside and recognize the game has passed him, he would rather deflect and point the finger elsewhere.
Who are you going to hire to replace him? It seems the grass is always greener and many teams rotate coaches every two years.
chatGPT would be the progressive choice, or Thibs 7 man rotation
Mark Jackson
Chris Jent with the Knicks
How does GSW fit Pat Spencer on the roster now?
Seth or GP2 has to go.
Seth
@daveyj. that’s who the candidates SHOULD be, but it won’t be Seth.
Did you hear Kerr say after Seth’s first game that they acquired Seth because he instantly fiits with GSW’s offense because he is so much like Steph — incredible range, quick release, shooting on the move, etc?
Kerr says they are working hard at phasing Seth in to the rotation at the 2. I’d expect Seth to get 16-20 mins per game in time.
It’s clear that Kerr sees Melton as the starter at the 2. Podz, Will Richard, Seth, Buddy and Moody will follow.
Yeah, because Kerr is super consistent and doesn’t regularly go back on his word about starters and rotations or anything, lol
Seth+GP2 aren’t as good a PG as Spencer though. When it comes to contracts and whatnot, those two are the lowest paid, therefore the most likely to land on the chopping block. Funnily enough I could see GP2 taking that 2way spot if he’s allowed to. Swapping Gp2 for Spencer contractually probably makes the most sense.
GSW depth chart (actual, not what idiot Kerr thinks):
PG: Steph, Melton, Spencer, Cryer, Podz, Gp2
SG: M00dy, Richard, Melton, Podz, Seth, Gp2, Buddy
Buddy is clearly Kerr’s worst player, therefore Kerr plays him the most, to poor results! Buddy, Podz and Gp2 are the three most likely guys to get moved. Will Richard is simply too good a fit in GSW’s system, meanwhile Podz and his “Dollar Store Westbrook” game could not be further from it.
Interesting thoughts about GP2 and the 2-way! You’re right, he probably would do that.
2 weeks ago, I would have enjoyed a give-and-take over the depth charts, but now I think it’s pointless because Kerr has already decided. Kerr will ride with Melton starting opposite Steph and Seth will become an increasing part of the offense.