The down side to this is that you need to be particularly skilled with your gamepad to properly compete. Well, you need to master tham all now. Another big improvement is in fatigue ratings. While this function was essentially broken in last year's game, allowing the player to keep his starting five on the court for the full 48 if he so desired, such isn't the case any longer. Players get tired now, and substitutes have to be sent in.
Bench strength means a lot here.
Not having good sixth and seventh men can kill you if you're taking on a deep opponent. To me, this made the overall experience particularly in Franchise play much more realistic, as it related a good impression of the strengths and weaknesses of the real NBA rosters. Getting to see first-hand why the Lakers still aren't going anywhere without some serious dealing is a nice plus that shouldn't be underestimated. Speaking of Franchise mode, it's been completely overhauled this time out. Which is a good thing, because what passed for it in NBA Live 99 was ill-conceived and practically useless.