The debate has begun; do we try to make the NBA watchable or do we just start fining players for appearing on Shaqtin’ A Fool? I’d say fine them the price of a sandwich and a beverage at Subway. Its purpose is to get players to step their game up.
We have guys doing things like traveling long distances, I.e. seven or more steps without dribbling, to airballing free throws, to (the worst offense) not playing defense at all. I’m glad Shaqtin’ exists because it can motivate players to be more alert.
My choice for Shaqtin’ MVP: Garlon Green, of some team in Germany. Look him up on YouTube. He dunked the ball in his own basket.
Anyway, the NBA right now is sometimes hard to watch because while offenses are still flashy, I have not heard of a team having a good defense because defense has apparently been legislated out of the NBA. Players are not permitted to put a finger on offensive players, making the game soft and players softer mentally. For example, this year’s Golden State Warriors wouldn’t last one quarter against the 1995-96 Chicago Bulls.
Memo to Commissioner Silver: Offense is all well and good, but please permit teams to play defense. And while you’re at it, I’d like to propose a new rule: if a foul shooter airballs a free throw and it’s his first attempt, he doesn’t get to shoot the next one or two. Trust me; it would be a better product.