The NBA introduces a new '3-2-1' rule to discourage teams from intentionally losing games. The rule changes the draft lottery system.

The NBA's Board of Governors has passed a new rule to prevent teams from intentionally losing games, known as 'tanking'. The new '3-2-1' rule aims to encourage competitive play and winning.

New Draft Lottery System

The new system expands the draft lottery from 14 to 16 teams and introduces a 'relegation zone' where the bottom three teams are penalized with reduced chances of getting the number one pick. The odds are also flattened to discourage tanking.

Penalties and Rewards

Teams that finish with the worst records will be penalized, receiving only two balls in the lottery, while teams that finish between 4th and 10th place will receive three balls. Teams that secure a play-in spot will receive two balls, and teams that lose in the play-in tournament will receive one ball.

Rule Details and Implementation

The new rule also includes a provision that no team can receive the number one pick in consecutive years, nor can they pick in the top five positions for three consecutive years. The rule was adopted with a 29-1 vote, with the Memphis Grizzlies being the only team to vote against it. The new rule will take effect from the next draft and will be in place until at least 2029.

Key points

• The NBA introduces a new '3-2-1' rule to prevent tanking
• The draft lottery system is expanded from 14 to 16 teams
• The bottom three teams will be penalized with reduced chances of getting the number one pick
• Teams that finish between 4th and 10th place will receive three balls in the lottery
• The new rule will be in place until at least 2029
• The rule was adopted with a 29-1 vote, with the Memphis Grizzlies voting against it