NBA Weighs Shorter 40-Minute Games Amid Early-Season Injury Wave
NBA Commissioner Adam Silver is reportedly exploring shortening games to 40 minutes to combat a severe early-season injury wave, though financial and structural hurdles remain.
The NBA is facing a renewed debate over potentially shortening games from 48 to 40 minutes, mirroring FIBA and European basketball rules. Amid a wave of injuries early in the 2026/27 season, reports indicate that Commissioner Adam Silver is open to the structural shift.
Speaking on a podcast with NBA journalist Rachel Nichols, Sports Illustrated reporter Chris Mannix revealed that Silver has shown genuine interest in transitioning to four 10-minute quarters. "Adam is a guy who thinks globally when it comes to basketball," Mannix noted, adding that Silver previously voiced support for the idea in January 2025 by suggesting shorter games align better with modern viewing habits.
However, Mannix expressed skepticism regarding the feasibility of the reform due to immense financial hurdles. He also warned that shorter games might diminish the role of bench players rather than easing the physical toll on superstars, potentially forcing teams to shrink their active rotations.
The discussion has gained urgency following a lengthy injury list at the start of the season, featuring prominent stars such as Anthony Edwards, Kawhi Leonard, Tyrese Haliburton, Chet Holmgren, Jalen Williams, Jaren Jackson Jr., and Ja Morant. While reducing the grueling 82-game regular season has also been floated as a remedy, analysts remain doubtful, emphasizing that the NBA relies heavily on its star power to draw ticket-paying audiences.
