Not all are sold because of the plan to return to the NBA.
The 2019-20 season is expected to resume on July 30 at Walt Disney World in Orlando, Florida, with 22 teams participating in a “bubble” environment designed to stop the spread of COVID-19. There are inherent risks that come with a restart, as well as some general drawbacks, and The Athletic published an article Wednesday that outlines some common concerns among NBA general managers.
One of those concerns comes from players not being allowed to have family or friends inside the bubble until after the first round of the playoffs, a precaution that could affect product on the court if the psychological effects prove too much. All teams are expected to perform in Orlando no later than July 11 and the first round is expected to end on August 30, meaning players from 16 teams would go seven weeks without being around anyone in their circle. intimate.
The situation is even more dire for staff members (main office executives, coaches, coaches, media relations, etc.), who could go about three months without seeing their families if their team makes it to the Finals. the NBA. And, reportedly, an NBA coach has been very vocal in trying to change current logistics.
“A source said Boston coach Brad Stevens has constantly pressured the league to reconsider its decision that the families of staff members will not be allowed,” wrote Sam Amick of Athletic.
Is the proposed solution, a bubble scenario in Florida, where coronavirus cases have started to increase, perfect? Of course not, especially when you consider how strange it will be for players and staff to go from being quarantined with their families to not seeing them for weeks or months.
But ultimately, there is no easy way. Sacrifices will be needed to save the season, and the NBA, at least, has apparently been extremely thorough in crafting a comprehensive plan that adheres to certain health and safety protocols.
Thumbnail photo via John E. Sokolowski / USA TODAY Sports Images
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