League Responds to Growing Concerns Over Competitive Integrity

The NBA is preparing to implement new rules designed to discourage teams from intentionally losing games to improve their draft position, commonly referred to as “tanking.” Commissioner Adam Silver informed the league’s 30 general managers on Thursday of the impending changes, which will take effect for the 2026-27 season.

The decision comes amid increasing scrutiny of the practice, with some owners and executives expressing concerns about its impact on the league’s competitive balance and overall integrity.

Potential Rule Changes Under Consideration

Discussions between the league office and stakeholders have been ongoing, with several concepts proposed to address the issue. These include:

• First-round draft picks can only be protected for top-four or top-14-plus selections.
• Lottery odds could freeze at the trade deadline or a later date.
• Teams may be prohibited from picking in the top four in consecutive years and/or after consecutive bottom-three finishes.
• Teams could be barred from picking in the top four the year after making the conference finals.
• Lottery odds could be allocated based on two-year records instead of one.
• Expanding the lottery to include all play-in teams.
• Flattening the odds for all lottery teams.

Silver Emphasizes Need for Action

At Thursday’s meeting, Silver was described as forceful in his message about the need to resolve the problem, which has gained steam across the league in recent weeks. He expressed a willingness to continue discussions to safeguard the integrity of the sport.

“Commissioner Adam Silver informed the league’s 30 general managers on Thursday that the NBA plans to make anti-tanking rule changes for next season, sources told ESPN.”

Shams Charania, ESPN

Mike Krzyzewski, the league’s senior advisor for basketball operations, reportedly urged a swift and tasteful attack on the issue, preparing all involved to respond to the league’s actions in the coming months.

Recent Fines Signal League’s Resolve

The NBA recently demonstrated its commitment to addressing the issue by fining the Utah Jazz $500,000 and the Indiana Pacers $100,000 for resting healthy players in recent games. The league made it clear that actions compromising its integrity would not be tolerated.

Owner Voices Strong Concerns

Mat Ishbia, owner of the Phoenix Suns, publicly condemned tanking, stating it is much worse than any sports betting scandal.

FAQ

What is ‘tanking’?

Tanking refers to the practice of a team intentionally losing games to secure a higher draft pick in the following season.

When will the new rules take effect?

The new anti-tanking rules are scheduled to be implemented for the 2026-27 NBA season.

What are some of the proposed rule changes?

Proposed changes include restrictions on draft pick protections, freezing lottery odds, and limiting consecutive top-four picks.