Golden State Warriors head coach Steve Kerr said this week he is increasingly worried that the NBA’s rapid tempo combined with its full 82-game calendar is driving a spike in soft-tissue injuries across the league.
The concern surfaced after a rash of recent setbacks: Giannis Antetokounmpo sustained a groin strain, the San Antonio Spurs announced a left calf strain for rookie Victor Wembanyama, and UConn guard Stephon Castle was diagnosed with a hip flexor strain. Other notable names—Anthony Davis, Ty Jerome, Dylan Harper, Ja Morant and Jrue Holiday—remain sidelined with calf issues.
Kerr said the Warriors’ medical staff believes the added speed and mileage “is catching up to players.” Data from ESPN Research shows the league is operating at its fastest average pace since the 1988-89 season. Tracking technology indicates teams now cover a combined 34.3 miles per game at an average speed of 4.43 mph, both the highest marks recorded since tracking began in 2013.
“Across the league, everyone understands that it’s easier to score if you get out and run,” Kerr told ESPN’s Anthony Slater. “Players are running faster and further than they ever have. We basically have a game every other night. It is not easy.”
The four-time championship coach has long advocated shrinking the regular season to 72 games or fewer, arguing that fewer contests would enhance player health and allow for more practice time. He noted the Warriors have not held a single practice during their current eight-day road swing.
Golden State is already on its fifth back-to-back of the year. By the end of Wednesday’s game in Miami, the team will have played 17 games in 29 days across 12 cities.
Despite the mounting injuries, Kerr is skeptical meaningful change is imminent. “Everyone would have to agree to make less money,” he said. “In 2025 in America, good luck with that.”
Source: Hoops Wire
