Jordan Slams Load Management, Faces Mixed Reactions

In a taped sit-down with NBC’s Mike Tirico on MJ: Insights to Excellence, Michael Jordan slammed the NBA practice of “load management,” saying it “shouldn't be needed” and arguing players who are physically able have a duty to fans, citing examples like the 1997 “Flu Game.” He said missing games is acceptable when a player truly cannot play but criticized absences taken simply because a player “doesn't feel like doing it,” and recalled refusing to be sidelined early in his career. The reaction around the league has been mixed: Charles Barkley endorsed older‑guard critiques while Stephen Curry pushed back, noting rest decisions are often driven by team training staffs and that he typically campaigns to play. Critics and some analysts warned Jordan’s view risks being out of touch with heavier modern movement demands, advanced recovery science and long‑term health priorities. The NBA has taken steps—such as a 65‑game eligibility threshold for awards—to limit excessive resting, but load management remains a contested issue among players, teams and fans.