The NBA Season Outcome: Canceling or Continuing 2019-2020 Given the Current Pandemic Situation
In light of the rampant cases of COVID-19 and the current state of Florida, it seems increasingly likely that the 2019-2020 NBA season will be cancelled. The league, initially hopeful of addressing the pandemic through their grotesquely incompetent program, has found itself grappling with rekindled outbreaks, which have stalled progress in many states. This comes at a critical juncture, with Florida reporting a significant rise in cases, while some European nations are cautiously resuming normal operations. While an explosion on this scale is undoubtedly a bummer for fans, players, and stakeholders alike, it ultimately poses a significant threat to the integrity and safety of the sport.
Typical NBA Season Timeline
As of June, and with less than four months left until the start of the 2020-2021 NBA season, the 2019-2020 NBA season is normally close to its end. Regular season games continue followed by playoffs, usually wrapping up in August or September. The following season commences in late October, signaling a fresh start. This timely reminder of the typical season cycle underscores the challenges ahead, especially as the NBA contemplates the uncertain ramifications of continuing the ongoing season.
Impact on Teams
For fans, the decision to continue or cancel the 2019-2020 season is a matter of perspective. Some teams, like the Golden State Warriors, might even welcome the closure, leaving their record unchanged and ending the season on a more manageable note. Meanwhile, for top contenders like the Los Angeles Lakers and the Milwaukee Bucks, this scenario represents a significant loss: the Lakers, while still in contention, have the weight of LeBron James's age and season long absences, and the chance of Anthony Davis testing the free agency market. For the Houston Rockets, questions remain unsolved as the team navigates another season without potential playoff success.
Preparing for the 2020-2021 Season
Given the current situation, it is imperative that the NBA focuses on planning for the 2020-2021 season. Delaying the restart of the 2019-2020 season not only puts immediate health and safety into jeopardy but also jeopardizes the integrity of the 2020-2021 campaign. The challenges lie in resuming play and ensuring a fair, safe, and enjoyable experience for players, fans, and stakeholders.
Conclusion
The 2019-2020 NBA season, naturally poised for its finale, now finds itself in a precarious position due to the ongoing pandemic. A hasty restart to the season, given the current ineptitude in handling the situation, would have far-reaching negative impacts. It is incumbent upon the NBA to prioritize health and safety over the lingering hopes of salvaging an unsteady season. Sports and entertainment thrive best under safe, controlled circumstances, and the NBA must take decisive steps to ensure this remains true for the future.
Ultimately, the decision to continue the 2019-2020 season is fraught with risks and uncertainties. A more prudent approach, akin to other professional leagues' decisions, suggests that the season should indeed be cancelled. This move aligns with public health guidelines and preserves the integrity of both the immediate and subsequent seasons.
Despite the compelling narrative of financial implications and the frolicsome passion for the game, public health must take precedence. The NBA's temporary suspension of the 2019-2020 season, already in place since March 11, underscores the necessity for a thoughtful, comprehensive approach to resuming NBA play.