The NBA does not want gimmicks or exhibitions when play resumes next month in a run-up to the playoffs and the crowning of a true champion. Hence, the lack of creativity in the format of play in the Orlando “bubble.”
But the novel coronavirus is still an unchecked pandemic. It didn’t disappear as some had hoped in the warmer months. Even creating an insulated, contained environment for a portion of the league to resume play, you’re still talking about attempting to contain a respiratory virus among at least 700 players, coaches, staff, media and families over two months.