The NBA is moving closer to implementing a new draft lottery reform aimed at curbing "tanking" by teams. This proposed "3-2-1" system, discussed during a virtual GM meeting, would become effective for the 2027 draft, expanding the lottery from 14 to 16 teams. Teams will be allocated lottery balls based on their standings, with specific allocations based on performance:
- Three Balls (8.1% chance): Seven teams that missed the playoffs but avoided the worst three records.
- Two Balls (5.4% chance): Seven teams finishing among the bottom three, penalized under a "draft demotion" clause.
- One Ball (2.7% chance): The losers of the play-in game between the 7th and 8th seeds.
Additional rules include preventing any team from securing the top pick in consecutive years and limiting top five picks to no more than three years in a row. The proposal also introduces a sunset clause, requiring a board vote to continue the system after 2029.
NBA Commissioner Adam Silver is committed to enhancing competitive balance, and this proposal combines elements from multiple prior proposals. While the plan was well received, some GMs feel aspects are too punitive, particularly regarding guaranteed top-10 picks for the bottom teams. Discussions will continue leading up to a Board of Governors meeting on May 28, where a vote on these reforms is expected.
