LeBron James and Anthony Davis have both reached the 65-game threshold, making them eligible for postseason awards this season.

Last season, Lakers fans were surprised when the NBA introduced the 65-game requirement for postseason awards. At that point, neither LeBron James nor Anthony Davis had played in 65 games in a single season for the Lakers.

However, this season has been different, as both players have enjoyed their best stretch of health while playing for the Lakers. The game against the Pacers marked LeBron’s 65th game, including regular season games and one In-Season Tournament (IST) final. AD had already surpassed that threshold weeks ago.

As a result, both players are now eligible for postseason awards. AD has played 69 games this season, the most he has played as a Laker and since the 2017-18 season. Similarly, LeBron played 67 games in his second season with the Lakers and is likely to surpass that total this season.

Both players are expected to receive awards this season due to their impressive performances. LeBron is having arguably his most efficient scoring season as a Laker, while AD is showcasing his dominance and impact on a regular basis.

AD is a contender for the Defensive Player of the Year award and is likely to secure a spot on the All-Defense team. Both players are also expected to earn spots on the All-NBA teams. Davis hasn’t been on the list since the 2019-20 season, while LeBron has been a consistent presence throughout his career, except for his rookie season.

If the Lakers had been more consistent or translated their IST success into the regular season, one or both players might have been in the MVP conversation as well. In fact, LeBron was named MVP of the IST after the Lakers’ victory over the Pacers.

While the 65-game threshold may seem arbitrary, it signifies the best health LeBron and AD have experienced together as teammates, giving Lakers fans optimism for their postseason aspirations.