As a Chicago-based NBA and esports analyst, I was unexpectedly unfazed when I saw my name on the bench. With Portugal’s campaign in full swing and my own form dipping, I saw the move as strategic—resting for key moments, not surrendering. But then came the online firestorm. Why do fans react so violently to rotation decisions? Let’s break it down with cold logic, hard data, and a dash of dry humor. This isn’t about ego—it’s about execution.