Multiple NBA teams are reportedly ready to submit proposals to Commissioner Adam Silver aimed at fixing the league’s draft system and reducing incentives to lose games, according to ESPN NBA Front Office insider Bobby Marks. The discussions could lead to a major overhaul rather than minor adjustments, with teams seeking ways to reward winning over draft positioning.
Marks highlighted that teams are actively exploring options to alter the current setup, including eliminating pick protection and finding new ways to assign draft value. He noted one front office from outside the lottery said it would “write a blank check” to secure a top-three pick this year, demonstrating how the current system drives decision-making even for non-lottery teams.
The debate over tanking intensified after the Utah Jazz received a $500,000 fine for sitting Lauri Markkanen and Jaren Jackson Jr. late in games against Orlando and Miami. Head coach Will Hardy defended the movs, saying, “If our medical team puts a minutes restriction on Lauri, I’ll try to keep Lauri healthy,” while Jazz owner Ryan Smith publicly questioned the penalty on social media.
Commissioner Silver has emphasized that any actions prioritizing draft position over on-court competition will not be tolerated. The fines and scrutiny reflect the league’s ongoing efforts to enforce the Player Participation Policy, including independent physician reviews and oversight by the Competition Committee and Board of Governors.
Several teams, including Indiana and Toronto in recent seasons, have followed similar approaches when pursuing high draft picks, highlighting a recurring challenge in league rules. Marks pointed out that even Milwaukee has faced similar discussions regarding resting Giannis Antetokounmpo late in the season to improve draft positioning.
With Utah currently 13th in the Western Conference at 18-38 and having lost seven of their last ten games, the Jazz situation has renewed calls for systemic change. League sources indicate that proposals under consideration will focus on minimizing the financial and competitive incentives to tank while maintaining fairness in the draft lottery.
Teams are expected to submit formal recommendations to the NBA in the coming weeks, potentially reshaping draft policies ahead of the 2026 offseason. The proposals could address compensation structures, lottery odds, and enforcement measures designed to prioritize competitive integrity across all 30 franchises.
