The NBA has long enjoyed a stable group of teams, but this season the Detroit Pistons, Washington Wizards and San Antonio Spurs are each on pace for fewer than 20 wins. The Pistons may win only 2 games all season. This raises the question — should the NBA implement a relegation system like in European soccer leagues?
On a recent episode of “The Athletic NBA Show”, the hosts discussed the idea of relegation – demoting the worst NBA teams to the G League and promoting the best G League teams. They argued this season’s bottom three teams don’t deserve to stay in the league. The Pistons are not even tanking for a top draft pick; they’re just a horribly constructed roster even with Cade Cunningham. The Wizards thought they’d compete but have collapsed. And the Spurs are focused more on player development than winning.
Would relegation work in the NBA? Would team owners want it?
Check out the video embedded above to hear their thoughts.
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