NBA Weighs New Rules to Curb Tanking

League Eyes Changes to Draft Incentives

The NBA is reportedly considering new steps to discourage teams from intentionally losing games in hopes of securing higher draft picks. League officials fear that some franchises may trade away talent or rest key players late in the season to improve their position in the NBA Draft lottery. The league wants teams to remain competitive and protect the integrity of regular-season games.

This discussion comes after years of debate around tanking. The NBA already adjusted the lottery odds in past seasons, flattening outcomes so worse records don’t guarantee top picks. Now executives are exploring additional measures that could further reduce the appeal of losing intentionally.

Ideas Being Discussed

One idea under consideration would strip teams of draft picks if league data indicates they intentionally lost games. Another proposal reportedly would reward teams for winning more games, even if they fall outside playoff contention.

The NBA is also evaluating changes to how lottery odds are assigned. By tightening the gap between the worst and best odds among non-playoff teams, the league hopes to cut the upside of bottoming out a season.

Commissioner Adam Silver and other league leaders have not announced specific rules yet. However, they have said they want to maintain fairness and keep fans engaged throughout the entire season.

Why the NBA Is Focused on Tanking

Tanking matters because it can affect the quality and competitiveness of games. If teams prioritize losses to improve draft position, fans may lose interest in late-season contests. Worse, it can create uneven playing fields and hurt player development and team culture.

The NBA has seen teams trade veteran players or give extended rest to stars when playoff hopes fade. While those decisions have legitimate strategic reasons, critics argue they cross the line when they contribute to a pattern of losing.

Reactions Around the League

Not every team or analyst agrees on how to stop tanking. Some argue that losing remains a legitimate strategy for rebuilding teams. Others believe the league must take stronger action to preserve meaningful competition in every game.

Front offices around the league are watching closely. If the NBA adopts stricter penalties for tanking, teams may have to rethink how they manage rosters and minutes late in the season.

What Could Change Next

The NBA has not set a timeline for finalizing any changes, but commissioner and team governors are expected to discuss proposals at the upcoming league meetings. Fans and analysts will be watching to see whether the league moves beyond lottery tweaks and toward concrete penalties for intentional losing.

For now, the idea of curbing tanking has momentum. Whether it becomes policy will depend on balancing fairness, competition, and the traditional strategy of rebuilding through the draft.