NBA commissioner Adam Silver’s recent proposal to shorten games to 40 minutes has sparked a conversation across the basketball community. While not all coaches agree, Golden State Warriors head coach Steve Kerr has voiced his support for the idea.
Silver first introduced the concept of reducing each NBA quarter to 10 minutes during an interview on the Dan Patrick Show. He believes the adjustment could help improve player well-being and reduce wear and tear over the long season. Kerr, in turn, expressed his approval during an appearance on 95.7 The Game’s “Willard & Dibs” show.
Kerr explained his rationale, noting that while he isn’t entirely sure the idea is the right move, it’s worth considering all options to protect players. “I think it’s a good idea. I’m not saying for sure it’s the right thing to do, but … we got to think of everything we can do,” Kerr said, via Jordan Elliott of NBC Sports Bay Area.
The Warriors’ head coach also highlighted the realities of the current NBA schedule. “One thing we know, the league isn’t going to cut games out of the schedule. I wish they would, but they’re not going to,” he added, acknowledging the financial implications of reducing the number of games. Kerr stressed that shortening the length of each game could be an alternative solution if the league refuses to reduce the total number of games played.
Kerr suggested that with a shorter game duration, the league could extend the season, allowing for more rest days between games. This would address concerns about player fatigue and the impact of the current grind on physical health.
However, Kerr’s support of Silver’s idea has not been universally embraced. Several prominent NBA coaches have expressed strong opposition to reducing the length of quarters. Los Angeles Lakers head coach JJ Redick and Denver Nuggets head coach Michael Malone have both voiced concerns about the proposal, emphasizing that reducing game time could alter the integrity of the sport.
For now, the debate continues as Silver’s idea gains traction. While Kerr is in favor of exploring new ways to improve player health and the overall game experience, others remain hesitant about making such a significant change. The outcome of this discussion could shape the future of the NBA’s scheduling and its approach to player safety.
