Michael Jordan shared his thoughts on load management during the latest episode of the “Insights to Excellence” series, which aired following the Milwaukee Bucks’ victory over the New York Knicks. Jordan criticized the trend of players taking games off for rest during the lengthy 82-game season.

“It shouldn’t be needed, first and foremost,” Jordan declared. “I never wanted to miss a game because it was an opportunity to prove – it was something that I felt like, you know, the fans are there that watch me play. I want to impress that guy way up on top who probably worked his ass off to get a ticket or to get money to buy the ticket.”

Over his 15-year Hall of Fame career, Jordan often played 70 or more games a season. The few times he did not were due to injuries or midseason retirements.

Jordan emphasized, “You have a duty that if they’re wanting to see you and as an entertainer, I want to show…If I can do it and just don’t feel like doing it, that’s a whole different lens.”

Jordan also recounted his legendary “flu game” during the 1997 NBA Finals against the Utah Jazz, showcasing his desire to play through adversity. He pointed out that even if a doctor advised him to sit out, he would likely reject the notion.

“It’s usually not the player that is going to the training staff and saying, ‘Hey, I don’t have it tonight.’” stated Stephen Curry about load management decisions.

However, Jordan’s mindset reflects the heart of competition that fueled his career.