Resting players has become a hot topic in the NBA this season.
A big issue in the NBA currently is superstar players being rested. This is an issue for the fans who are purchasing tickets to see these stars. For fans to see stars on other NBA teams, they might only have 3-4 chances during the season. However, for the teams and the players, this rest can be vital. For example, LeBron James is the biggest superstar in the NBA. He has also played one of the most minutes in the league this year despite his age (32). As an away fan, it would be disappointing to buy a ticket to see LeBron and see him resting. However, for a Cleveland fan, they want to see LeBron rested so that they have a better chance during the playoffs and the finals.
This has become a big issue. Both sides have valid points of why they are right. So, I believe the NBA should step in to fix the situation. I feel that the commissioner, Adam Silver, needs to revamp the NBA schedule. It can be in the form of reducing back to back games or even shortening the NBA season. This way players will have more time to rest between games and also this will lead to fewer rests occurring. In all honesty, I do not believe that NBA fans will be disappointed to have a bit shorter NBA season if this will allow stars to play every game and be fresh for better competition.
Another issue with stars resting is the contracts with the big networks. TV companies sign huge contracts with the NBA to see stars play. If stars get rested this brings down ratings on the networks and doesn’t look good on the NBA. This might lead to smaller contracts in the future, which will affect the amount of money players will be able to receive. As a fan, I would love to see stars play every game. But I know teams need to prioritize rest to look at the bigger picture. So, the commissioner and the NBA need to take a deep look at this issue and work together to resolve it.
