The NBA's renewed focus on addressing tanking has become a hot topic, with the San Antonio Spurs' recent draft success drawing particular attention. The Spurs managed to snag top picks in three consecutive drafts, landing them talents like Victor Wembanyama, Stephon Castle, and Dylan Harper. While this is a boon for San Antonio, it's sparked concerns across the league.
In a bid to tackle tanking, discussions at recent GM and Competition Committee meetings have floated ideas like limiting first-round pick protections and adjusting lottery odds. But there's another intriguing proposal gaining traction: revamping the second round of the NBA Draft.
Sam Quinn from CBS suggests a novel approach-flipping the second round. This would allow successful teams, such as the Spurs, to secure picks in the thirties, while struggling teams would select later in the round. The idea is to give contending teams a mechanism to bolster their depth and trade assets, helping them maintain competitiveness without breaking the bank.
This concept ties into the challenges posed by the recent collective bargaining agreement, which has made it tougher for top teams to manage their rosters under financial constraints. The Boston Celtics, for example, have had to make significant roster changes to avoid financial penalties, despite remaining a powerhouse.
By rewarding successful teams with higher second-round picks, the NBA could help them continue thriving while curbing excessive spending. Teams like the Spurs could benefit from a late first-round and an early second-round pick, allowing them to add affordable young talent and stay competitive.
Ultimately, this approach could serve as a win-win, helping to curb tanking while ensuring that great teams remain great, all within a sustainable financial framework.