NBA reportedly considers sharper rules to curb tanking
nba-reportedly-considers-sharper-rules-to-curb-tanking
The NBA is evaluating several new measures designed to discourage teams from losing games intentionally to improve their draft position, ESPN reported.
According to the network, ideas under discussion include:
- Reducing or eliminating pick protections in future trades.
- Prohibiting teams from receiving top-four selections in back-to-back drafts.
- Locking in draft-lottery odds as early as March 1, weeks before the regular season ends.
The league revisits the issue every few years, usually after multiple clubs appear to prioritize draft positioning over short-term results. Commissioner Adam Silver has repeatedly stated that improving competitive balance is a primary focus.
Observers critical of the proposed changes say altering lottery deadlines could prompt front offices to dismantle rosters earlier in the schedule, while stricter pick protections might reduce trade activity. Skeptics also contend that barring consecutive top-four picks may encourage teams to engineer a single down year rather than eliminate the incentive to lose.
Any policy adjustments would need approval from the NBA Board of Governors. No timeline for a formal vote has been announced.
Source: Hoops Wire
