This has been an “issue” for a long time, but ever since every player became a millionaire, wins and losses haven’t mattered as much to me. Oh, the Lakers are losing to the Kings tonight. So what? Every player is set for life. The 60s-90s were more interesting because players were fighting for survival. Yes, they’ve been making tons of money, but I now it’s so overblown. Yes, players are still fighting for contracts and playing time, but it’s not the same.
I wish there were non-guaranteed contracts or more incentive-based deals. In-season tournament? What’s the appeal? Why would someone who makes $5 million per year care much about winning the tournament? Bragging rights? Additional money? Meh.
You don’t even have to go back to the 60s. As recently as 2004, the Minnesota Timberwolves offered Latrell Sprewell a contract that couldn’t even feed his family.