Is a Shortened NBA Season Leading to More Injuries?

Jan 23, 12

By Lana Bandoim

The effects of the NBA lockout continue to be felt by fans and players. The shortened NBA season has already created a long list of injuries, and it is getting worse. Although fans initially rejoiced that the lockout was resolved, the shortened season of 66 games has created new problems for players.

A Growing Injury List

As the NBA season progresses, the list of injuries continues to grow. There are always players listed on the injury list, but this season’s numbers seem to be growing too quickly. Stress and strain problems are the most common. In addition to multiple knee, ankle and wrist injuries, some unusual issues have developed. Torn pectorals, injuries that are rare in the NBA, have appeared with both Al Horford and Kwame Brown being affected. Another unusual injury is Steve Blake’s fractured rib cartilage.

Shorter Training Camps

The NBA lockout led to shorter training camps for the players. As the lockout dragged on for five months, its resolution made shorter training camps a necessity for teams. The lack of preparation seems to be tied to the high number of injuries fans are currently witnessing. Athletes require proper conditioning to maintain their strength, and the shorter season has robbed many of them of this opportunity. Additionally, the lockout prevented NBA trainers from working with injured players because of strict regulations.

Too Many Games?

Can David Stern’s decision to cram 66 games into a shorter NBA season be blamed for the ongoing injury problems? It would have been impossible to fit 82 games after the lockout, and Stern had the opportunity to create a schedule that did not drain the teams. Instead, he selected a packed schedule that gives players very little breathing room between games and even less time to heal from injuries.

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Lana Bandoim is a freelance writer and editor. She is a Featured Contributor for the Yahoo! Contributor Network with a B.S. degree in Biology and Chemistry. She is an avid athlete, youth coach and follows several sports. To learn more about her work or hire her please visit Writer Lana.