Solution for the NBA to fix its tanking problem: Count wins - ESPN

ESPN

by Tim Bontemps

February 19, 2026

AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary

The NBA faces a growing issue with tanking, where teams intentionally lose games to secure higher draft picks, leading to uncompetitive and uninspiring matchups. The league is exploring solutions to align incentives better, ensuring teams focus on winning rather than losing. A proposed fix involves flipping the draft lottery system after the All-Star break: instead of prioritizing losses, teams' wins post-All-Star would determine their lottery standing. This shift aims to create a more balanced competition and reward effort on the court. Currently, the draft order is based on regular-season losses, which has led some teams to prioritize losing over winning during key stretches. For instance, Indiana, Washington, and Utah are actively tanking this season to secure higher picks in the upcoming lottery. This strategy results in fewer competitive games, alienating fans and undermining the league's entertainment value. NBA Commissioner Adam Silver acknowledges the problem, noting that current incentives encourage teams to prioritize losses over wins. He emphasizes the need for a system that rewards winning while still providing opportunities for struggling teams. The league has considered various approaches, including adjusting draft protection rules or flattening lottery odds, but these solutions fail to incentivize winning. The proposed plan shifts focus from accumulating losses to earning wins after the All-Star break. By doing so, it encourages teams to compete more actively, potentially leading to more competitive games and a fairer evaluation of playoff contention. This change could restore excitement for fans and create a more equitable system where success on the court directly impacts draft positioning. Ultimately, addressing tanking matters because it affects both player performance and fan engagement. By incentivizing wins post-All-Star, the NBA can ensure teams remain competitive throughout the season, fostering a more engaging and fair league structure. This approach not only benefits struggling teams but also enhances the overall quality of the game for fans, making it a crucial step in maintaining the NBA's appeal and integrity.

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Originally published on ESPN on 2/19/2026