Full Breakdown
Concerns Over NBA Injuries Linked to Increased Pace and Schedule
11/19/2025, 4:30:32 PM
Rising Injury Rates in the NBA
Golden State Warriors head coach Steve Kerr has expressed significant concern regarding the increasing number of soft tissue injuries in the NBA, attributing this trend to the league's accelerated pace of play and the demanding 82-game schedule. Recent injuries include Milwaukee Bucks forward Giannis Antetokounmpo's groin strain and San Antonio Spurs center Victor Wembanyama's left calf strain, alongside several other players such as Anthony Davis and Ja Morant sidelined with similar issues. Kerr noted that the Warriors' medical staff believes the combination of speed, mileage, and lack of recovery time is contributing to these injuries.
The Fastest Pace in Decades
According to ESPN Research, the NBA is currently experiencing its fastest average collective pace since the 1988-89 season. Teams are traveling an average of 34.3 miles per game at a speed of 4.43 miles per hour, marking the highest metrics since player tracking began in the 2013-14 season. Kerr highlighted that while a faster pace can facilitate scoring opportunities, it also requires players to cover more ground, particularly with the prevalence of three-point shooting. He stated, "Players are running faster and further than they ever have. We basically have a game every other night. It is not easy."
The Case for a Shorter Schedule
Kerr has long advocated for reducing the NBA's regular season from 82 games to 72 or fewer, arguing that this change would allow for better player health and more practice time. He pointed out that the Warriors have not had a single practice during their current road trip, which has spanned over eight days. "It is just game after game. There is no recovery time and no practice time," Kerr remarked. The Warriors are already on their fifth back-to-back set of games within the first month of the season.
Financial Implications of Change
Despite his concerns, Kerr remains skeptical about the likelihood of the NBA shortening its schedule due to the financial ramifications. He noted that all stakeholders would need to agree to a reduction in revenue, which he believes is unlikely. "Everyone would have to agree to make less money. In 2025 in America, good luck with that," he stated, emphasizing the challenges of prioritizing player health over financial gain.
Criticism & Opposition
While Kerr's perspective highlights the pressing issue of player injuries, there may be differing opinions on the necessity of a shorter schedule. Some stakeholders in the league could argue that the current structure is financially beneficial and that teams are equipped to manage player workloads through strategic rest days and injury management.
Verbatim Quotes
- “believes that the wear and tear, the speed, the pace, the mileage is factoring into these injuries.” — Steve Kerr, Head Coach, Golden State Warriors
- “When everybody plays that way, the pace gets much higher.” — Steve Kerr, Head Coach, Golden State Warriors
- “We have not had a single practice on this road trip,” — Steve Kerr, Head Coach, Golden State Warriors
- “Everyone would have to agree to make less money. In 2025 in America, good luck with that.” — Steve Kerr, Head Coach, Golden State Warriors
