The idea of resting star players has been more prevalent among teams this season, much to the annoyance and disapproval of most fans, networks, and former players.
There was two weeks ago, when the Golden State Warriors rested three of its four All-Star starters against the Spurs. What was once a highly anticipated matchup became a dud for casual fans, with both teams sporting bench players for much of the contest.
Last week, the same thing happened again. This time, via the Cleveland Cavaliers, who decided to sit their top three players in a marquee game against the Clippers. While their situation was slightly different (both Irving and Love were dealing with injury), the overall perception of resting stayed the same in the minds of those that paid money to see players play: It shouldn’t be happening.
For MVP candidates Russell Westbrook and James Harden, the idea of resting is silly:
“I’m a hooper,” James Harden said, via ESPN. “I just want to hoop. I’ll rest when I’m done. I feel like my teammates and organization need me to go out there and do what I do. I get obviously paid for it, but it’s something I love. I enjoy the grind. I enjoy how hard it is. I think that makes you tougher. That makes you who you are.”
Russell Westbrook, the league leader in triple-doubles this season, would agree:
“I like to play basketball, so I like to go out and compete and have fun,” Westbrook said. “For me, I look at it differently from being hurt, and missing a lot of games. I embrace every moment. I have an opportunity to play basketball, and I’m enjoying any time I can to get on the floor and play. That’s just how I see it.”
The league office certainly isn’t in favor of teams resting their players — Commissioner Adam Silver reportedly even called the Cavs’ front office to discuss the matter a few days ago.
Regardless, teams eyeing a Playoff push into late May or early June find it best to rest their star players every so often to lower the risk of potential injury, and that thought isn’t likely to change anytime soon. For the hungry Russell Westbrook and James Harden, however, that thought hasn’t even begun to percolate in their minds.
Perhaps that’s a prime reason why they are the two leading candidates to win the Most Valuable Player award.
