Intentionally fielding a weakened workforce to extend the chances of securing the next draft decide within the subsequent NBA draft, significantly close to the top of the common season, undermines the aggressive integrity of the league. A workforce exhibiting this conduct may bench wholesome star gamers or make questionable personnel choices, successfully diminishing their possibilities of profitable video games. An instance could be a workforce with a shedding document, already eradicated from playoff rivalry, demonstrably prioritizing draft positioning over securing victories in its last video games.
The prevalence of this observe damages the notion of truthful competitors and erodes fan belief within the league’s dedication to meritocracy. Traditionally, the lottery system was applied to discourage groups from overtly in search of to lose. Nonetheless, some groups proceed to interact on this conduct, believing that the potential rewards of buying a high draft decide outweigh the fast penalties of shedding video games and doubtlessly alienating followers. This negatively impacts groups vying for playoff positioning, as their schedule might embrace contests in opposition to groups with lowered aggressive drive.
