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Secaucus Today
By the People, for the People
NBA's Race to the Bottom Helps Warriors
League's efforts to curb tanking could provide boost for Golden State
Feb. 23, 2026 at 2:23am
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The NBA has implemented various measures over the years to address the issue of tanking, where teams intentionally lose games to improve their draft position. These efforts have included flattening the lottery odds, creating a tournament to incentivize regular-season games, and levying fines. However, the league's attempts to curb tanking could end up providing a lift for the Golden State Warriors, who are looking to return to championship contention.
Why it matters
The Warriors have struggled in recent seasons after their dynasty run, and they are hoping to rebuild and regain their status as an NBA powerhouse. The league's efforts to discourage tanking could inadvertently help the Warriors, as teams may be less inclined to purposefully lose games, potentially improving the overall talent level and competitiveness of the league.
The details
The NBA has tried various methods to address the tanking problem, including flattening the lottery odds to reduce the incentive for teams to lose games, and creating a tournament to incentivize regular-season games. The league has also levied fines and tried public shaming to discourage teams from intentionally losing. These measures, while aimed at curbing tanking, could end up benefiting the Warriors, who are looking to return to championship contention after a few down years.
- The NBA has been addressing the tanking issue over the years.
The players
Golden State Warriors
An NBA franchise based in the San Francisco Bay Area, known for their recent dynasty and multiple championship wins.
What’s next
The Warriors will look to capitalize on the league's efforts to curb tanking as they aim to rebuild and regain their status as an NBA powerhouse.
The takeaway
The NBA's attempts to address the tanking problem could inadvertently provide a boost for the Golden State Warriors, who are seeking to return to championship contention after a few down seasons.


