Back to today’s briefing

Story perspectives

NBA Plans to Expand Lottery to 18 Teams

4/10/2026

46 6 Full Breakdown

Summary

NBA Lottery Expansion

The National Basketball Association (NBA) is considering expanding the lottery to 18 teams with picks drawn.
The proposal would give the worst 10 teams an 8% chance at the No. 1 pick.
Eight Play-In teams would have a 2.5% chance.
Some observers favor a lottery floor to keep the worst teams' path to improvement.
A vote on the reforms is anticipated at the board of governors meeting May 28.

Summary

Wizards Seek Lottery Luck

The NBA draft lottery is scheduled for April 12, 2026, after the regular season.
The Washington Wizards (NBA) hold the worst 17-63 record, with a 14% chance for the No. 1 pick.
The Indiana Pacers (NBA) and Brooklyn Nets (NBA) are tied for the second-worst, each with 14%.
The Utah Jazz (NBA) and Sacramento Kings (NBA) follow, each with 11.5%, underscoring the lottery's potential impact.

History

Historical Context

The NBA introduced the draft lottery in 1985 to prevent teams from tanking for better draft picks, following accusations of manipulation. The New York Knicks won the inaugural lottery, selecting Patrick Ewing first overall. Recent proposals to expand the lottery to 18 teams aim to enhance competitive balance, reflecting ongoing concerns about fairness in player acquisition and team rebuilding strategies.

1 of 3

NBA Lottery Expansion

The National Basketball Association (NBA) is considering expanding the lottery to 18 teams with picks drawn.
The proposal would give the worst 10 teams an 8% chance at the No. 1 pick.
Eight Play-In teams would have a 2.5% chance.
Some observers favor a lottery floor to keep the worst teams' path to improvement.
A vote on the reforms is anticipated at the board of governors meeting May 28.

1 / 3