The NBA challenge system is in its inception this season, but it has more non-fans than fans. For the fans of the new system, it allows officials to take their time to get things right, and for coaches to challenge questionable calls. The argument, of course, is due to several controversial calls that made or broke NBA games over the last few years.
However, some coaches are NOT fans of the new system strictly because the game is now over-thought and slow. Doc Rivers started the season out on this list, but would later backtrack. Miami Heat coach Erik Spoelstra is enjoying one of his best starts in recent years, but he isn't a fan of the review system at all.
Recently, Spoelstra stated that the challenge system is a distraction and has actually hurt the flow of the game.
Spoelstra on challenge system, “I don’t like it. I’m a coach, I’m not an official.” Spoelstra calls it “distracting” and says it hurts the flow.
— Ira Winderman (@IraHeatBeat) November 23, 2019
Can we totally blame the Heat coach for his distaste of the review system? Not necessarily, but he makes for a good discussion point.
Think of college football or the NFL. Most catches and touchdowns are subject to reviews that just make your eyes roll. It isn't necessarily a bad thing but does EVERY catch, fumble or touchdown have to be reviewed, especially when the outcome is already obvious?
In the NBA spectrum, that's how coaches feel. Some things, perhaps in Erik Spoelstra's mind, don't need a review. He will live with the human error, for the sake of the game.
However, it appears that the Heat, Spoelstra and the rest of the NBA may have to adjust to their new normal whether they like it or not.
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