This is different. COVID-19 concerns aside, from a physical preparation standpoint this go-stop-go NBA season will provide an unparalleled challenge, a case study in conditioning.
Another fact: The physical prep for Orlando will involve a lot more than liners and running laps around the gym. Of course, cardiovascular conditioning plays a role in regaining game shape, but NBA coaches and performance directors whose teams will be among the 22 in Orlando have a lot more on their plate than just figuring out how much running to do.
Not only is the league taking a risk that at any point the Orlando bubble might be burst by a COVID-19 breakout, but there’s an equal chance that many players, rookies and vets alike will not be able to handle the physical toll of transitioning from isolation to the season’s restart. Making sure physical issues don’t happen, ensuring that players have the legs and lungs to play in August and September will make performance…
