New York Knicks: The Chicago bubble conundrum

Negatives about the Chicago bubble

The obstacles of going to Chicago

The first thought about the bubble is that the Knicks would have to quarantine for 14 days, then travel, get tested, and participate in a two-week training camp, only to play a total of four games. That’s a lot of obstacles only to get four games in, considering the team is not playing for a championship. Understandably, there’s no better practice for young players than live repetitions, but there has to be more of an incentive than four games.

Also, there have been talks about each team hosting training camps, which is safer, cost-effective and less of a hassle.

Veterans wouldn’t play

It isn’t confirmed, but the veterans that signed one-year deals will most likely sit out because there is no guarantee they will be with the team next season. Players like Taj Gibson, Bobby Portis, Elfrid Payton, Maurice Harkless, Wayne Ellington and Reggie Bullock will probably not be in Chicago if the second bubble is approved.

It makes sense for the vets not to return either. These players don’t have to prove their value to other NBA teams because four games will not change the entire season’s body of work. Front offices will use these athlete’s playing history plus this season’s footage and make their judgment.

Also, with the potential of injury, the vets would risk future earnings if they’re unable to play. So it makes sense for them to sit out these potential games.

Risk of injury

Speaking of injury, it’s certainly a risk of having the younger players partake in the Chicago bubble. Sure, we have seen clips of Robinson and Knox training and staying in shape, but we are unaware of the remaining players’ fitness status. And if one of the young Knicks gets injured during these games, they could miss a crucial year of development.