Some argue that early recognition can motivate players and build excitement for the season ahead. They claim it helps keep media interest high and keeps the league in the spotlight during a traditionally slow period. However, this overlooks the long-term damage to fan trust and genuine achievement.

The risk is alienating loyal fans who value fair play and earned recognition over manufactured hype.

League executives may prioritize short-term financial gains over long-term fan loyalty.

As leagues continue to seek new ways to engage audiences in an increasingly digital age, such premature recognition risks becoming the norm. However, this trend could backfire if fans start boycotting games or switching off entirely due to perceived gimmicks and lack of substance.

This move will likely split fan opinion sharply, with some embracing the early hype while others reject it outright. The tribalism is clear: die-hard traditionalists versus those who see value in any form of media engagement.