Tyrese Haliburton’s Game 7 Achilles injury sparked serious conversation around the NBA’s playoff structure. Sports host Colin Cowherd is leading the call for change. On Monday, he said the long seven-game series is too hard on players and needs to be shorter.
While it is not likely the NBA will make this change soon, shorter series would mean fewer games, which could hurt the league’s profits and TV time. But Haliburton’s injury is a reminder of the risks players face. Cowherd’s comments may not lead to immediate action, but they add to growing concern about player health and the long playoff grind.
Cowherd wants the NBA to return to five-game series for the early playoff rounds. “The NBA is on notice. Shorten the playoffs,” he said on his show. He also noted the league’s massive $76 billion media deal and demand. “They can give a couple of games back,” Cowher believes this change could help protect players from severe injuries.
Colin Cowherd urges the NBA to have 5-game series in the playoffs after Tyrese Haliburton's Achilles injury.
— Awful Announcing (@awfulannouncing) June 23, 2025
"The NBA is on notice. Shorten the playoffs…The oligarchs and the billionaires have a $76 billion contract coming. They can give a couple of games back." pic.twitter.com/xkvX7HmbZx
Whether the league listens or not, the debate around playoff reform is growing louder. As stars like Haliburton and Jayson Tatum pay the price, pressure builds for the NBA to find a better balance between competition and health.
Tyrese Haliburton Opens Up About Their Final Exit After His Surgery
Haliburton suffered a torn Achilles just minutes into Game 7 of the NBA finals. This unexpected collapse ended his night after a strong start. The Pacers’ star had already scored nine points when the injury struck. He dealt a crushing blow to the Pacers’ hopes in their 103-91 loss to Oklahoma City.
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After surgery in New York, Haliburton shared an emotional message on social media. He spoke honestly about the pain and frustration, but said he has no regrets. “I’d do it again, and again after that, to fight for this city and my brothers,” he wrote.
He promised fans he would return stronger and thanked them for their support.
Also Read: Are Tyrese Haliburton And Jalen Suggs Related? Exploring The Connection Between The Two NBA Guards
