NBA Moves Away from 'Load Management' Toward Increasing Player Availability
- Resting healthy players is no longer supported by data showing it reduces injuries or improves performance.
- The NBA has implemented new rules limiting 'load management' and requiring minimum games played for awards eligibility.
- "Load management" rose to prominence when Kawhi Leonard rested during the 2018-19 season with the Raptors.
- The league aims to improve fan satisfaction and negotiate a new TV deal by increasing player participation.
- Policies encourage a culture shift toward more playing time during the regular season and All-Star Game.