Now, that the NBA finals are over let’s take a look at the NBA rules changes the league should look into implementing for next year.
The NBA should bring back the hand-check rule. According to NBA rules. The hand-checking rule consists of “An illegal form of defense in basketball in which a defending player uses one or both of his hands or his arm to impede the forward or lateral movement of an offensive player.”
Exhibit A
Kenny “The Jet” Smith explains it perfectly how the NBA players of today can play for decades by removing the hand-check rule. As Smith explains it in the video, in the era of Shaquille O’Neal, Charles Barkley, and himself guys were able to defend the other players and make it difficult for the offensive player to shoot the ball and get wide open shots. The rule of not placing two hands on an opponent makes it difficult for defenders to play defense as they did in the 2000s era. For example, LeBron James has the ability to get open easily without the defender touching him within the perimeter. James can pass the ball, drive for a lay-up, and can shoot an open jump shot.
NBA Rules Changes
It can be difficult to adapt for the players, coaches, and staff. As a coach, you have to plan accordingly. Every aspect of defensive plays and drills change the perspective of the players. In fact, players have to accommodate and seem lazy on defense nowadays which can be frustrating and aggravating to watch live NBA games due to the new rule.
Hand-checking rules have changed the NBA and the league will never be the same. The defender can no longer jab an opponent let alone place their elbows on the opponent. Therefore, the offensive player has the freedom to shoot from every angle on the court. Perfectly example would be Stephen Curry who can practically shoot from anywhere without a defender pressuring him.
NBA players can easily play for 20 years without getting pressured on defense. As a result, they can easily move to create plays and pass to the open teammate.
In conclusion, that is why the league should implement the rule of Hand-checking for next year. If implemented, It will bring back the fun in defense once again.
