The All-Star break is almost here.
The NBA’s elite will flock to New York later this week for the annual sports spectacle, culminating with the marquee game at Madison Square Garden on Sunday night. It’s a time for the league to showcase itself and its stars, and it’s a chance for players and coaches to pause from the regular season’s 82-game grind.
And unlike in past years, everybody might actually be able to unwind.
The NBA doubled the days off between games this season after players encouraged Commissioner Adam Silver to rework the schedule. Teams will have a minimum break of eight days between games, allowing even those who participate in All-Star weekend to get a few days of real rest.
While nobody will complain about it, the extended break presents new challenges. Players will need to stay in rhythm, and coaches will need to keep them focused.