After so much talk about key NBA players potentially missing out on seasonal awards, two teams landed good news on that front on Thursday, April 16. Los Angeles Lakers guard Luka Doncic and Detroit Pistons guard Cade Cunningham were both granted exceptions, according to a joint release.
As for Minnesota Timberwolves guard Anthony Edwards, he was denied.
“Minnesota Timberwolves guard Anthony Edwards, who played in 60 qualified games, filed an extraordinary circumstances challenge under the CBA, seeking award eligibility before an independent arbitrator. Edwards’ challenge was denied, and as a result, he is not eligible for annual awards for the 2025-2026 NBA regular season.”
GettyNEW YORK, NEW YORK – JANUARY 17: Anthony Edwards #5 of the Minnesota Timberwolves in action during the game against the New York Knicks at Madison Square Garden on January 17, 2025 in New York City. The Timberwolves won 116-99. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Sarah Stier/Getty Images)
While Edwards dealt with basketball-related setbacks throughout the year, ESPN’s Shams Charania reported that an infection kept Edwards off the court at one point. Edwards’ team filed under that angle, similar to Cunningham, who suffered a collapsed lung in March.
Unfortunately, Edwards was denied. Hours after the statement was released, Edwards’ manager released a statement on the decision, name-dropping the Pistons star.
Cade Cunningham Mentioned In A Statement
GettySAN FRANCISCO, CALIFORNIA – MARCH 13: Anthony Edwards #5 of the Minnesota Timberwolves reacts after making a three-point shot against the Golden State Warriors in the second half at Chase Center on March 13, 2026 in San Francisco, California.
via Shams Charania, ESPN: “Anthony and I appreciate the PA appealing his case. For me personally, I’m a bit confused at the clemency for Cade who missed time for something that happened on the court, and not Ant, who missed time for an infection, but ultimately you already know Ant isn’t trippin over it AT ALL.”
While the statement acknowledged Cunningham’s setback and the fact that he missed 12 games as a result of it, the NBA didn’t reveal further details on the decision.
GettyDENVER, COLORADO – JANUARY 27: Cade Cunningham #2 of the Detroit Pistons celebrates after defeating the Denver Nuggets 109-107 at Ball Arena on January 27, 2026 in Denver, Colorado. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and/or using this Photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Jamie Schwaberow/Getty Images)
Cunningham wrapped up the 2025-2026 NBA season by playing in a total of 65 games. The All-Star logged over 2,100 minutes.
While Cunningham is unlikely to land recognition for being an MVP finalist, the star guard has a strong chance of landing All-NBA for the second season in a row.
This year, Cunningham averaged 23.9 points (46.1% FG, 34.2% 3PT), 9.9 assists, and 5.5 rebounds per game.