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NBA Teams Tanking for Better Draft Picks as Season Ends

4/7/2026

37 4 Full Breakdown

Summary

Story summary

As the NBA regular season nears its end, tanking teams seek better draft positions.
The Brooklyn Nets have a 14% chance at the top pick.
The Washington Wizards have lost six straight, cementing their status as the league's worst.
The Indiana Pacers have lost 20 of 23 and sit tied with the Utah Jazz for the Western Conference's worst record, as the NBA commissioner weighs anti-tanking measures after blowouts.

History

Historical Context

The NBA introduced the draft lottery in 1985 to prevent teams from intentionally losing games, a practice known as tanking. This reform followed accusations against teams like the Houston Rockets, who were suspected of manipulating their records for better draft positions. Today, the Brooklyn Nets have a 14% chance of securing the top pick, highlighting ongoing concerns about competitive balance in the league.

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Story summary

As the NBA regular season nears its end, tanking teams seek better draft positions.
The Brooklyn Nets have a 14% chance at the top pick.
The Washington Wizards have lost six straight, cementing their status as the league's worst.
The Indiana Pacers have lost 20 of 23 and sit tied with the Utah Jazz for the Western Conference's worst record, as the NBA commissioner weighs anti-tanking measures after blowouts.

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