NBA's Adam Silver to consider changing draft lottery, revoking picks to stop teams from tanking - AP News
AP News
February 14, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
The NBA is considering significant reforms to its draft lottery system in an effort to combat "tanking," a practice where teams intentionally lose games to secure higher draft picks. League Commissioner Adam Silver has hinted at potential changes, including altering the draft lottery structure or even revoking draft picks from teams that fail to compete adequately during the season. These measures aim to discourage teams from prioritizing losing over long-term competitiveness.
Tanking has become a growing concern in the NBA, as it undermines the competitive integrity of the league and frustrates fans. Silver's proposed reforms could include adjusting the probability of winning the draft lottery based on team performance or imposing stricter penalties for underperformance. This approach would incentivize teams to compete harder throughout the season rather than focusing solely on securing a top draft pick.
The issue gained attention after several teams, including the Minnesota Timberwolves and Cleveland Cavaliers, faced criticism for their perceived tanking strategies during the 2022-23 season. Fans and analysts argue that such practices harm the league's brand by creating uncompetitive games and reducing excitement.
While the NBA has yet to finalize these changes, they reflect a broader effort to ensure teams remain committed to winning while still allowing for rebuilding through the draft. These reforms could also help maintain fan engagement and preserve the league's reputation as a competitive and entertaining sport.
Ultimately, Silver's proposed changes aim to strike a balance between rewarding team performance and providing opportunities for struggling franchises to rebuild their rosters. This initiative highlights the NBA's ongoing commitment to innovation and fairness in its operations, ensuring the league remains a top-tier global sports organization.
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Originally published on AP News on 2/14/2026