URGENT UPDATE: Golden State Warriors coach Steve Kerr expressed serious concerns about the NBA’s accelerated pace of play, warning that it is leading to a troubling rise in soft tissue injuries among players. This alarming statement comes on the heels of injuries to some of the league’s top athletes, including Giannis Antetokounmpo, who suffered a groin strain, and Victor Wembanyama, who is sidelined with a left calf strain.
In recent days, the injury list has grown to include Stephon Castle (hip flexor), along with Anthony Davis, Ja Morant, and others, all out with calf-related issues. The NBA is experiencing its fastest average pace since the 1988-89 season, raising alarms among coaches and medical staff.
Kerr stated, “The wear and tear, the speed, the pace, the mileage is factoring into these injuries.” With the Warriors facing their fifth back-to-back games this month, Kerr highlighted the lack of recovery time and practice opportunities, stating, “We literally haven’t had a single practice on this road trip.” His comments reflect a broader concern about player health as the league grapples with a grueling 82-game schedule.
As the NBA pushes for high-scoring games, Kerr emphasized that the increased pace makes it more challenging for players to maintain their health. “Everyone has to cover out to 25 feet because everybody can shoot 3s. We’re trying to do the best we can, but we basically have a game every other night,” he explained.
The Warriors’ schedule has forced them to play 17 games in 29 days across 12 cities, culminating in games against the Orlando Magic and Miami Heat on consecutive nights this week. Following the Miami game, the Warriors will have faced a punishing travel itinerary that places additional strain on their roster.
Kerr has long advocated for a shortened season, suggesting a reduction to 72 games to allow for more rest and practice time. “The tricky part is all the constituents would have to agree to take less revenue,” he cautioned, indicating that financial pressures may prevent meaningful changes. “In 2025 in America, good luck in any industry,” he added, underscoring the difficulty of prioritizing player health over profit.
The Warriors are not alone in facing these challenges. Injuries impacting key players across the league could have significant implications for playoff races and fan engagement as the season progresses. Fans and teams alike are left wondering how the NBA can balance the excitement of fast-paced games with the health of its athletes.
With the season still young, all eyes will be on how the league addresses these growing concerns. Will there be adjustments to the schedule or new protocols implemented to mitigate injury risks? As Kerr and others continue to voice their worries, the health of players remains a pressing issue that could reshape the future of the NBA.
