Back to today’s briefing

Story perspectives

NBA Proposes 3-2-1 Lottery, Expands Draft to 16 Teams

4/30/2026

45 6 Full Breakdown

Summary

Silver Proposes Lottery

NBA commissioner Adam Silver sent a “3-2-1 lottery” anti-tanking proposal to all 30 general managers.
The plan expands the draft lottery to 16 teams—including play-in losers and ninth-tenth seeds—and bars consecutive No. 1 picks or three straight top-five selections.
A Board of Governors vote is set for May 28, with changes possibly effective for the 2027 draft and expiring after the 2029 draft unless extended.

Summary

Portland Gains

Drawing all 16 lottery spots would shift tanking incentives from the bottom of the standings to the play-in border.
Portland could double its chance at a top-three draft pick by receiving Milwaukee’s inherited lottery balls.
The worst clubs could fall as low as the 12th pick, whereas the current lowest drop is the 7th.

1 of 2

Silver Proposes Lottery

NBA commissioner Adam Silver sent a “3-2-1 lottery” anti-tanking proposal to all 30 general managers.
The plan expands the draft lottery to 16 teams—including play-in losers and ninth-tenth seeds—and bars consecutive No. 1 picks or three straight top-five selections.
A Board of Governors vote is set for May 28, with changes possibly effective for the 2027 draft and expiring after the 2029 draft unless extended.

1 / 2