The Ringer NBA Show The NBA’s Tanking Problem Hits Rock Bottom and More Trade Deadline Ripple Effects | Group Chat
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Feb 9, 2026 They dig into how tanking has worsened and why small markets lean on the draft. They debate policy fixes like penalties, rookie free agency, and enforcement hurdles. They break down trade-deadline ripple effects, including Jaron Jackson Jr.’s fit, James Harden’s Cavs debut, and which teams jumped tiers or missed chances.
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Money And Inertia Block Big Fixes
- The league prioritizes revenue and attention, which blocks big structural fixes like shortening the season.
- Rob Mahoney says owners and league inertia make meaningful changes unlikely despite agreement they would improve the product.
Tweak Lottery Odds To Change Behavior
- Experiment with lottery odds and draft mechanics to discourage tanking.
- J. Kyle Mann suggests further changing odds might alter team behavior and reduce intentional losing.
Giannis Sponsorship Sparks Integrity Fears
- Giannis's betting-market ad raised integrity concerns and fan distrust.
- Rob Mahoney called the player's involvement with prediction markets 'a fucking disgrace' for league integrity.