As defensive pick-up points have gradually become more aggressive in recent NBA seasons, players have been picking up more injuries.

To start the 2024-25 campaign, 18 former all-stars are injured, pace of play is the highest it’s been since 1988-89 and teams are defending the full length of the court in an unprecedented manner.

Golden State Warriors head coach Steve Kerr attributed the uptick in injuries to this increased exertion.

“We have all the data,” Kerr told reporters before Tuesday’s game against the Orlando Magic. “Players are running faster and farther than ever before, so we’re trying to do the best we can to protect them, but basically have a game every other night and it’s not an easy thing to do.

“(The medical staff) believe that the wear and tear, the speed, the pace, th

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