Golden State Warriors head coach Steve Kerr renewed his call for the NBA to reduce the number of games played each season. He suggested cutting 10 games from the current 82-game schedule to enhance both the quality and competitiveness of the league.
Kerr acknowledged the financial challenges tied to such a change, especially as it would require teams and players to accept reduced revenue. However, he emphasized that fewer games would promote healthier athletes and a more competitive environment throughout the season.
Pace of Play and Player Health
The demand and pace of the NBA schedule have increased significantly in recent years. According to ESPN Research, teams are averaging 115.2 points per game this season, marking the highest scoring rate since the 1969-70 season. This uptick in scoring correlates directly with a faster pace of play.
Players now cover an average distance of 37.1 miles per game at speeds averaging 4.29 mph, representing the longest and fastest recorded since tracking began in 2013-14. Kerr has highlighted how this intense schedule, combined with heavy travel, leaves little time for rest and practice.
For example, during a recent road trip, the Warriors did not hold a single practice session because of travel demands. This situation, Kerr argues, contributes to fatigue and raises the risk of injury.
Impact of a Long Schedule on Competitiveness
Kerr linked the excessive number of games to issues beyond player health, including the ongoing problem of tanking. The Utah Jazz recently faced a $500,000 fine from the league for tanking, with the Indiana Pacers also fined $100,000. The NBA stated these actions damage the league’s integrity.
Advocates for shortening the season, including Kerr, believe reducing games would limit opportunities for teams to intentionally lose in order to gain better draft positioning. It would also mean less wear and tear on players, potentially producing more consistent competition and reducing injury-related absences.
Current Team Status and Challenges
The Warriors’ recent injury struggles underscore Kerr’s concerns. On Monday, Golden State played without key players such as Stephen Curry, Jimmy Butler, and Al Horford. Their depleted roster helped contribute to a narrow 129-126 loss against the Jazz. This marks four losses in five games for the Warriors, placing their playoff chances in jeopardy.
Kerr’s views reflect broader discussions within the NBA about balancing financial interests with player health and game quality. While reducing games would impact revenues, the long-term benefits could include fewer injuries, more competitive matchups, and improved fan engagement.
Summary of Key Points Proposed by Steve Kerr
- Reduce the NBA regular season by 10 games, from 82 to 72.
- Improve player health by decreasing physical and mental fatigue caused by dense scheduling.
- Lower travel demands to allow teams additional time for rest and practice.
- Mitigate issues related to tanking and preserving league integrity.
- Enhance competition by having fresher players throughout the season.
Kerr’s repeated calls for a shorter season are rooted in a strategic vision to make the NBA more sustainable and engaging for players and fans alike. His perspective invites the league office and stakeholders to consider the long-term impact of the grueling schedule on the sport’s future.
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