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Shiny courts, ugly truth: the Emirates Cup was NBA’s lipstick covered pig

David Early has been with SB Nation since 2019. As a credentialed media member he’s covered the Brooklyn Nets, hosting pods & guest appearing on NY Post-SNY's NY Got Game.

The NBA felt there was a viewership and interest ratings problem around this dreary, cold point in the season, and, sure, they’re right. Some fans and former players are whining about the way the game has changed — too many threes, not enough creativity, etc.

Fact of the matter is that in November and December, many smart players coast in fifth gear, load manage, and nurse minor injuries right around the same time that the NFL and college pigskin seasons peak.