The NBA has implemented distinct game minimums for player eligibility. Why the discrepancy between the 65-game requirement for regular season awards and the 58-game threshold for leading a statistical category? Historically, players needed to appear in 70% of an 82-game season (58 games) to qualify as a statistical leader. However, recent changes by the league now mandate 65 games for any player to be eligible for end-of-season accolades.