How The NBA’s New Draft Lottery Changes The Incentives Around Tanking
The NBA is implementing a new draft lottery system starting in 2027 to discourage teams from tanking. The revised format will expand the lottery to 16 teams and change how lottery chances are allocated. This change aims to maintain the integrity of the regular season and enhance the competitive balance within the league.
- ▪The new draft lottery system is called the '3-2-1 Lottery' and will include 16 teams.
- ▪Teams that miss the playoffs will receive three lottery balls, while the three teams with the worst records will receive only two.
- ▪The new structure links regular-season performance and draft opportunities differently than the previous system.
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BusinessSportsMoneyHow The NBA’s New Draft Lottery Changes The Incentives Around TankingByGiovanni Malloy,Contributor.Forbes contributors publish independent expert analyses and insights. Giovanni Malloy, Ph.d, is a data scientist and sports analyst.Follow AuthorMay 29, 2026, 12:42am EDT--:-- / --:--This voice experience is generated by AI. Learn more.This voice experience is generated by AI. Learn more.NEW YORK, NEW YORK - JUNE 25: Commissioner Adam Silver poses with 2025 NBA Draft Prospects prior to the first round of the 2025 NBA Draft at Barclays Center on June 25, 2025 in the Brooklyn borough of New York City.
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