Since
I wouldn't say it's gaming the game at all; it's really a necessary by-product of the training system. So, you can't have it both ways - either the training mechanism and its limits are fine (which results in precisely this 48 minutes scenario), or there is a problem that this is a basketball training game with matches to support the training.
As the game evolves, you have to add limitations to keep the balance. Using a player for 48 minutes in every contest for two years, starting in his rookie season, is absurd to someone like me who prefers a little more "rigid realism" in the game. I've been around since Season 7. Paid for every season. In my view, the training for the U21 and NT teams is out of balance and has skewed game play, the cost of players, and the general economy in ways that need corrected. I tried it myself for the first time this season and hated it. I'm not trying to infringe on anyone's fun--I know it's popular (just look at all of the professional tankers around and how that impacts the draft)--just looking for a little more balance. And I can have my cake and eat it too, if I want
Regards.