Steve Kerr says NBA prioritizes ratings over players’ health: ‘They clearly don’t care’

The Push for a Shorter NBA Season

Steve Kerr, the head coach of the Golden State Warriors, has long been a vocal advocate for a shorter NBA season. His stance was reignited this week as his team faced the challenges of back-to-back games, first against the Dallas Mavericks on Wednesday and then the Houston Rockets on Thursday. The grueling schedule, combined with the physical demands it places on players, has once again brought the issue of player health and rest to the forefront. Kerr’s frustration was evident after Wednesday’s loss to the Mavericks, as he criticized the NBA’s scheduling practices. He pointed out that the league’s prioritization of ratings and revenue over player well-being is both shortsighted and detrimental to the game. Kerr emphasized that the current 82-game season is unsustainable and advocates for reducing it to 72 games. He believes this change could help alleviate some of the physical and mental strain on players while also improving the quality of the game.

The Toll of Back-to-Back Games

Back-to-back games are a common occurrence in the NBA, but they take a significant toll on players. The physical demands of playing two games in a span of 24 hours are immense, and the lack of adequate rest can lead to fatigue, injuries, and subpar performance. Kerr’s Warriors are a prime example of this issue. After losing to the Mavericks on Wednesday, Kerr expressed his frustration with the scheduling, particularly the late tip-off time of 8:45 PM. He noted that the team arrived in Houston at around 3:00 AM, leaving little time for rest before the next game. Kerr’s comments serve as a reminder that the NBA’s scheduling practices often prioritize television ratings and revenue over the health and well-being of its players. He argued that this approach is not only unfair to the players but also to the fans, who expect to see their favorite players perform at their best.

Resting Players and the Impact on Fans

The issue of resting players during back-to-back games is a contentious one. While it is a common practice to ensure player health and longevity, it can also be disappointing for fans who pay to see their favorite players in action. Kerr acknowledged this dilemma, stating that he feels terrible for fans who buy tickets expecting to see a particular player only to find out that the player is rested. He described it as a “brutal part of the business” and reiterated his stance on advocating for a shorter season. Kerr’s comments highlight the balancing act the NBA must perform between prioritizing player health and satisfying its fans. While resting players is necessary to prevent injuries and maintain performance, it can also lead to dissatisfaction among fans who feel they are not getting the full value of their ticket.

The Role of Media and Ratings in NBA Scheduling

The NBA’s scheduling decisions are heavily influenced by television ratings and revenue. The league’s broadcast contracts are a significant source of income, and prime-time games are often scheduled to maximize viewership. However, this can come at the expense of player rest and recovery. Kerr’s frustration with the late tip-off time of the Warriors’ game in Houston is a prime example of how television scheduling can disrupt player health. He pointed out that the NBA’s “infinite wisdom” in scheduling such games shows a lack of regard for player welfare. While the league has made efforts to improve scheduling, such as reducing the number of back-to-back games and eliminating four-in-five-night stretches, there is still room for improvement. Kerr’s advocacy for a shorter season is, in part, a call for the NBA to reconsider its priorities and place greater emphasis on player health.

The Luka Dončić Trade and the Boost to NBA Ratings

While the NBA has faced challenges with declining ratings in recent years, the league has also experienced moments of heightened interest and viewership. The recent trade of Luka Dončić to the Los Angeles Lakers is a perfect example of how a high-profile move can generate buzz and attract viewers. Dončić’s debut with the Lakers was watched by over 2 million people, making it one of the most viewed regular-season games in recent memory. This surge in viewership is a testament to the star power of players like Dončić and the excitement they bring to the game. However, it also highlights the league’s reliance on its star players to drive ratings and revenue. While this is not inherently problematic, it reinforces the idea that the NBA’s business model is heavily dependent on the performance and marketability of its players, which can create pressure to keep them on the court even when rest might be necessary.

The Path Forward: Balancing Player Health and Fan Engagement

The debate over the NBA’s schedule and player rest is complex and multifaceted. On one hand, the league has a responsibility to its players to ensure their health and safety, which may require reducing the number of games and avoiding back-to-back contests. On the other hand, the NBA must also consider the interests of its fans, who pay to see their favorite players compete at the highest level. Kerr’s advocacy for a shorter season is a step in the right direction, but it will likely face resistance from stakeholders who are concerned about the financial implications of fewer games. Ultimately, the NBA must find a balance between prioritizing player health, maintaining fan engagement, and generating revenue. By fostering open dialogue and collaboration between coaches, players, owners, and league officials, the NBA can work towards creating a schedule that benefits everyone involved. The well-being of the players and the satisfaction of the fans should be the top priorities as the league moves forward in addressing this critical issue.