Part 7/11:
A significant critique revolves around the financial compensation of modern players. The speaker argues that players like Kawhi Leonard earning $50 million per year but rarely on the court exemplify the problem. He criticizes the culture of players skipping games due to minor injuries or rest days, which erodes fan support and the league’s credibility.
The example of Zion Williamson missing crucial early-season games over trivial injuries highlights how superstar absences contribute to a decline in league interest. This casual approach to participation feeds into a narrative that the league has lost its edge.