I think 90% of the fan base agrees with this statement, and is hopeful that JB will find a way to make it happen this season. That said, he has what seems to me (without actually researching the numbers), a growing tendency to ride "trusted" players harder and harder over the last few years. My unresearched perspective is that there were fewer players that fell into the 35+ minutes per game category in days of yore, as opposed to over the last few seasons.
I agree with this 100%. When we had elite talent, then of course you ride that guy for 36 minutes a game.
But when the guys are all "pretty good", and there may not be that much of a difference between the talent level of the guy on the floor versus the guy on the bench, give the guy on the bench a shot.
Everyone will be more on their toes, if they might actually come out of a game - and not go back in at the next timeout. Bench players will get better faster, because players don't "only" get better in practice. Being under the spotlight brings out something extra in some players, or puts a cap on the ability of others.
Competitive practices will remain that way, and players will remain motivated, if they see an actual opportunity to get on the floor. Please, please, please let's play a bunch of guys on this team - because none of them are NBA All-Stars. But we have a *bunch* of guys who are pretty good.
Fresh players make a difference.
Fresh players are less likely to get nagging injuries as the season goes on.
Fresh players are less likely to reach on defense and commit silly fouls.
Fresh players shoot a higher percentage from three than guys with tired legs.