Former NHL defenseman P.K. Subban has never been one to hold back, and his latest comments about the stark differences between the NBA and the NHL are stirring up heated debate. Speaking on ESPN’s First Take with Stephen A. Smith, Subban took aim at the NBA’s load management strategy while praising hockey players for their relentless drive—even in the face of injuries.
“What Are You Playing For?” – Subban Challenges NBA’s Commitment
Subban didn’t sugarcoat his thoughts when comparing the 4 Nations Face-Off tournament to the NBA All-Star Game. The former Norris Trophy winner questioned the commitment of modern basketball players, pointing out how NHL stars push through adversity for their teammates and fans.
“In terms of the money, you’re probably right. There is a lot of money, but once again, I ask the question—What are you playing for? If you’re really about sports, then you’re about two things: your teammates and the fans.”
His comments came in light of LeBron James missing the 2025 NBA All-Star Game due to ankle and foot discomfort. Meanwhile, Auston Matthews, Matthew Tkachuk, and Brady Tkachuk played through injuries in the 4 Nations final against Canada, showing the resilience that Subban admires.
Adding to his argument, Subban pointed to the physicality of hockey, where three fights broke out within the first nine seconds of the USA-Canada game—something he believes showcases NHL players’ unmatched passion and intensity.
The Money Debate: NBA vs. NHL Contracts
Subban also touched on the vast financial gap between the two leagues. While Jayson Tatum recently inked a staggering $314 million, five-year contract with the Boston Celtics, the NHL’s highest contract belongs to Leon Draisaitl, who signed an eight-year, $112 million deal—a fraction of NBA money.
Despite the disparity in salaries, Subban insists that true professionals don’t play for the paycheck alone.
“And I’m sorry, it doesn’t matter how much money you’re making—when you do not show up to play, you’re letting your teammates down. You’re letting the fans down. These people are paying $2,500, $5,000 a ticket. If you don’t get your head wrapped around that, you shouldn’t be in pro sports.”
NHL Players Stand Up for Their Own—Do NBA Players?
One of Subban’s biggest arguments was that hockey players always back up their teammates—a fundamental part of the game that he feels is missing in the NBA.
He cited Nick Foligno, the Blackhawks captain who defended rookie Connor Bedard after a brutal hit left him with a broken jaw. He also praised Arber Xhekaj, Matt Rempe, and Ryan Reaves for their physical presence and willingness to fight for their teams.
By contrast, Subban criticized the NBA’s load management strategy, where star players often rest to preserve their health.
“They make the most money. You are an example. You got to show up. You got to take that on. I’m sick and tired of making athletes greats, all-time greats, that aren’t the best examples. Those are the people we want our kids to follow?”
P.K. Subban Wants More Michael Jordans and Kobe Bryants
The former NHL star didn’t just criticize; he also outlined the type of athletes he admires—legends who played through pain and never made excuses.
“I want you on the court dominating. I want you to go all out. I want Michael Jordan. I want Kobe. That’s what I want in every sport. If you’re a different version than that, you don’t get my respect.”
His call for accountability and old-school work ethic is sure to spark debate. Should NBA players adopt a grittier, play-at-all-costs mentality like hockey players? Or is the league’s emphasis on longevity and player preservation the smarter approach?
Either way, Subban has made his stance clear—true athletes show up, no matter the paycheck, no matter the pain.
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