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Stockton, Malone and Booner Didn't Miss No Stinking Games

The Stockton, Malone days are over. I actually expect some guys to sit out completely healthy this season on the Jazz for load management. Stockton and Malone were tough as nails for sure. I remember reading in Jody's book 100 things every Jazz fan should know before you die that Karl broke his finger on the backboard trying to block a shot during a preseason game, Sloan told him he was done, and he refused, wrapped it up, and finished that preseason game. Karl and John could handle it, it really didn't have negative impacts on their career they played until they were 40. But I completely see why both teams and players want to keep their players in the best shape as possible and are more cautious and smart about these things these days.
 
I think Donovan is old school like Karl and John. He definitely looked hurt the first couple of months last season.
 
Stockton and Malone should have missed games. We would have won more in the playoffs if they had.

D league players are fighting to get into the league. Way different situation from nba players. They are much more willing to play through injuries and risk worse injuries.
Yes. I recall a game where Malone sprained his ankle, stayed in and recked the blazers for 32 pts and the victory. Those were different times. Now a slight ankle roll and the team ends the players night.
 
A couple of things:

#1. GLeague players miss games due to injuries. They also play half as many minutes.
#2. There is too much $$$$ on the line. Players are hundred million dollar+ assets. Sometimes teams protect them and won't let them play. Also, if the players are smart, they won't play through injuries. Memo toughed it out, Boozer didn't. Who ended up with more money? How was Memo repaid for sacrificing his body for a playoff game? (Obviously Boozer would have gotten more money regardless, but Memo's missed out on tens of millions of dollars that night he tore his achilles.)
 
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