NBA to adopt rule changes next season in effort to combat tanking, per report
CBS Sports
by
Carter Bahns
February 20, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
The NBA is set to implement new anti-tanking measures starting with the 2026-27 season, aimed at addressing concerns about teams intentionally losing games to secure higher draft picks. Following discussions among league executives and general managers, several potential rule changes were proposed to reduce incentives for poor performance. These include restricting teams from selecting in the top four of the draft lottery consecutively or after finishing near the bottom of the standings, freezing lottery odds at the trade deadline, and allocating odds based on a two-year rolling record. Additionally, expanding the lottery to include all play-in teams and flattening the odds for all participants were also considered.
The proposals reflect growing fan frustration with tanking behavior, which has become increasingly prevalent in recent seasons. Commissioner Adam Silver emphasized the need for action during his All-Star media availability, while Phoenix Suns owner Mat Ishbia called for "massive changes" to address what he described as "losing behavior." The NBA has already taken steps against teams engaging in such practices, fining the Utah Jazz $500,000 for removing key players during games and the Indiana Pacers $100,000 for violating player participation policies.
These changes aim to create a more competitive league by discouraging intentional poor performance and rewarding sustained on-court success. The current system, which heavily rewards teams with poor records in the draft lottery, has been criticized for encouraging tanking. By implementing these rules, the NBA hopes to restore fairness and excitement among fans, ensuring that teams compete genuinely throughout the season rather than focusing solely on securing high draft picks.
The issue of tanking has sparked heated debates among fans and analysts, with many arguing that the current system undermines the integrity of the game. The proposed measures, if adopted, could significantly alter the dynamics of the league, making it harder for teams to achieve success through poor performance rather than merit. The NBA's efforts to address this issue highlight its commitment to maintaining a competitive and fair playing field, which is crucial for sustaining fan interest and the overall health of the sport.
In summary, the NBA's anti-tanking initiatives reflect a broader push to ensure that team success is based on actual performance rather than strategic losses. By implementing these rules, the league aims to eliminate不良行为and foster a more competitive environment, ultimately enhancing the experience for fans and stakeholders alike.
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Originally published on CBS Sports on 2/20/2026