Netflix's keeper test doesn't apply to someone going through a personal problem or other temporary issue. A manager would support them, making sure they get the time off they need. (And Netflix managers are usually very generous and understanding in that regard.) The keeper test is about maintaining a team of great contributors.

But the "dream team" doesn't last forever. The metaphor is meant to reinforce that. If you could play for a season with Michael Jordan, Barkley, Ewing, and the other amazing players from the actual 1992 Dream Team -- wouldn't you do it? And if you got cut the next season because there was someone even better than you -- would you regret being on that team? It would probably be a great experience, even if it only lasted a while. This is what the "dream team" idea is about.

It's clearly not for everybody, not for every company, and not for every situation. Netflix's culture is all about excellence, and the "dream team" and "keeper test" ideas work well there. I saw it play out first hand.