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Stephen Curry’s Impact in the NBA
Stephen Curry continues to be a leading attraction in the NBA. His exceptional shooting ability, impressive ball-handling skills, and enthusiasm for basketball attract crowds eager to see his pregame routines.
Curry’s Absence in New Orleans
For over two years, Curry was absent from New Orleans games, missing four consecutive matchups there in 2022. His rest during back-to-back games contributed to three of those absences.
Coaching Decisions Regarding Player Health
Prior to the Golden State Warriors’ game on November 4, 2022, head coach Steve Kerr expressed regret to fans for Curry’s absence. Kerr emphasized that player health is crucial for long-term team success, even more so than immediate fan satisfaction.
Kerr’s Views on Season Length
Kerr has advocated for reducing the regular NBA season from 82 games to 65. Concerned about the increasing demands on players, he reached out to NBA commissioner Adam Silver at the season’s start to argue his perspective.
Changing Game Dynamics
Reflecting on his playing days, Kerr noted that the modern game requires players to cover greater distances due to a shift towards faster-paced play and greater shooting ranges. The evolution of the sport has significantly changed its physical demands on athletes.
Injury Trends and Player Participation Policy
A recent NBA report revealed that players are missing more games than ever, with a notable increase in the average number of games missed by star players this decade. In response, the NBA introduced new policies to enhance player participation in games, especially during crucial broadcasts.
The Challenge of Balancing Profit and Product Quality
While Kerr strongly believes that a shorter season would yield a higher-quality game experience, he doubts that significant changes will occur due to financial interests. As business continues to thrive in the NBA, he recognizes that stakeholders may resist adjustments for the sake of quality.