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NBA Tanking: Is the “Gold Plan” the Answer to Restore Competitive Integrity?

The NBA is grappling with a growing problem: tanking. Recent fines levied against the Utah Jazz ($500,000) and Indiana Pacers ($100,000) for prioritizing draft position over winning have brought the issue to a boiling point. NBA Commissioner Adam Silver acknowledged the severity of the situation, stating that current measures “are not working.” But could a solution already exist, borrowed from other sports?

The Problem with Tanking: Undermining the Game

Tanking, the deliberate act of losing games to secure a higher draft pick, erodes the competitive spirit of the NBA. It disrespects fans, devalues regular-season games, and can negatively impact player development. The Jazz were specifically penalized for benching key players – Lauri Markkanen and Jaren Jackson Jr. – in the fourth quarters of games, a clear signal of prioritizing future assets over present-day competition. The Pacers faced a similar fine for resting Pascal Siakam.

The “Gold Plan”: A Proven Solution from Other Leagues

A potential remedy lies in a concept known as the “Gold Plan,” originally proposed by Adam Gold for the NHL in 2012 and recently adopted by the Professional Women’s Hockey League (PWHL). The core idea is to incentivize winning for teams already eliminated from playoff contention. Once a team reaches a predetermined number of losses (40 in the proposed NBA model), any subsequent wins contribute to their draft lottery odds. The team with the best record among those eliminated would receive the top draft pick.

How Would It Work in the NBA?

Currently, the NBA draft lottery system aims to equalize the odds for all non-playoff teams. The “Gold Plan” would shift the focus to the final stretch of the season. As of mid-February 2026, teams like the Sacramento Kings and Indiana Pacers have already surpassed 40 losses, while the Utah Jazz, Washington Wizards, and Brooklyn Nets are close behind. Implementing this plan would mean those teams would suddenly have a tangible reason to compete for wins in March and April, transforming meaningless games into crucial contests.

Addressing Concerns: Early-Season Tanking and Player Motivation

A valid concern is whether teams would simply tank *earlier* in the season to reach the 40-loss threshold quickly. However, intentionally losing games consistently over an entire season is more difficult to execute and would likely attract increased scrutiny from the league. Players themselves are likewise a key factor. They are competitors who wish to win, and their individual performance impacts their contracts and reputations. Hall of Fame coach George Karl emphasized the importance of addressing the issue, stating, “I don’t think it would work with me. I don’t think it’s right.”

Silver’s Stance and Potential Penalties

Commissioner Adam Silver has made it clear that the league is exploring “every possible remedy” to combat tanking, even considering measures like taking away future draft picks. The “Gold Plan” could be implemented alongside stricter penalties for blatant attempts to lose games early in the season, creating a multi-faceted approach to preserving the integrity of the league.

The Benefits of a Competitive Finish

The most significant benefit of the “Gold Plan” is restoring meaning to the final games of the regular season. Every contest would have stakes, not just for playoff contenders but for teams vying for a better draft position. This increased competition would be a win for fans, players, and the overall health of the NBA.

FAQ: Tanking and the “Gold Plan”

What is tanking? Tanking is the intentional act of losing games to improve a team’s chances of securing a higher draft pick.

Why is tanking a problem? It undermines the competitive spirit of the league and devalues the regular season.

What is the “Gold Plan”? A system where teams eliminated from playoff contention compete for draft position based on their wins in the final stretch of the season.

Could the “Gold Plan” be abused? Teams might attempt to tank earlier, but that’s harder to sustain and would attract league scrutiny.

What is the NBA doing about tanking? The league has issued fines and is exploring additional remedies, including potential draft pick forfeitures.

Pro Tip: Keep an eye on teams nearing 40 losses as the season progresses. Their approach to games in March and April could reveal whether the NBA adopts a “Gold Plan” style system.

What do you think? Would a “Gold Plan” solve the NBA’s tanking problem? Share your thoughts in the comments below!

Utah Mammoth: A Deep Dive into the Business of Hockey

The Utah Mammoth, owned by Ryan and Ashley Smith, represents a fascinating case study in modern sports franchise economics. Valued at $1.45 billion (as of December 2025), the team’s financial health is underpinned by a strategic approach to revenue generation, arena investment, and player cost management. This isn’t just about hockey; it’s about building a sustainable entertainment ecosystem.

The Arena Advantage: More Than Just a Venue

The recent $125 million renovation of the Delta Center is central to the Mammoth’s strategy. Increasing capacity for both hockey (by nearly 6,000 seats) and basketball (by about 1,000 seats) demonstrates a commitment to maximizing revenue streams. This dual-purpose approach, shared with the NBA’s Utah Jazz, spreads the cost of upgrades and ensures year-round utilization. Similar multi-use arena strategies are being seen in cities like Seattle with the Climate Pledge Arena, which hosts both the Kraken (NHL) and the Storm (WNBA).

Pro Tip: Investing in the fan experience – comfortable seating, improved amenities, and modern technology – is crucial for driving attendance and premium ticket sales.

Revenue Streams: Beyond the Gate

With $195 million in revenue, the Mammoth isn’t solely reliant on ticket sales. Gate receipts contribute a significant $66 million, but a diversified approach is key. The team’s media partnerships with Utah 16, SEG+, KSL Sports Zone, and 1160 AM KSL provide consistent income. Furthermore, concessions (handled by Levy Restaurants) and merchandise sales add to the bottom line. This mirrors the trend across the NHL, where teams are increasingly focused on building year-round brands, not just game-day experiences. The Vegas Golden Knights, for example, have successfully leveraged their brand to create a thriving entertainment and hospitality presence beyond the ice.

Controlling Costs: The Player Payroll Puzzle

Player expenses currently stand at $98 million. The Mammoth’s “Wins-to-player cost ratio” of 94 indicates a relatively efficient use of payroll compared to the NHL average. However, this is a dynamic metric. As the league’s collective bargaining agreement evolves and player salaries continue to rise, maintaining this efficiency will be a constant challenge. Teams like the Tampa Bay Lightning have demonstrated success by strategically drafting and developing talent, minimizing reliance on expensive free agents.

Fan Engagement and Revenue Per Capita

At $106 in revenue per fan, the Mammoth demonstrates a solid ability to monetize its fanbase within a metro area of 1.3 million people. This figure is influenced by ticket prices, merchandise sales, and spending on concessions. Increasing fan engagement through social media, community outreach programs, and exclusive experiences is vital for boosting this metric. The Toronto Maple Leafs, with one of the most passionate fanbases in the NHL, excel at leveraging fan engagement to drive revenue.

Future Trends in Sports Franchise Valuation

The Rise of Data Analytics

Teams are increasingly relying on data analytics to optimize everything from ticket pricing to player performance. Advanced metrics are helping franchises identify undervalued players, predict fan behavior, and personalize the fan experience. This trend will only accelerate as data collection and analytical tools become more sophisticated.

Esports and Gaming Integration

Many NHL teams are investing in esports and gaming initiatives to reach younger audiences and diversify revenue streams. Creating virtual teams, hosting gaming tournaments, and partnering with esports organizations are becoming commonplace. The Philadelphia Flyers, for example, have a dedicated esports team.

The Metaverse and Virtual Experiences

The metaverse presents new opportunities for fan engagement and revenue generation. Virtual stadium tours, interactive fan experiences, and the sale of digital collectibles (NFTs) are just a few possibilities. While still in its early stages, the metaverse has the potential to revolutionize the way fans interact with their favorite teams.

Sustainability and Social Responsibility

Fans are increasingly demanding that sports teams prioritize sustainability and social responsibility. Implementing eco-friendly practices, supporting local communities, and promoting diversity and inclusion are becoming essential for building a positive brand image and attracting fans.

FAQ

What is Enterprise Value? Enterprise value represents the total value of the team, including debt and equity.
What does the Wins-to-player cost ratio measure? It assesses how efficiently a team converts player payroll into wins compared to the league average.
How important are arena renovations? Arena renovations are crucial for enhancing the fan experience, increasing capacity, and generating additional revenue.
What role does media play in team revenue? Media partnerships provide a consistent revenue stream through broadcasting rights and advertising.

Did you know? The NHL is experiencing a period of significant growth in popularity, particularly among younger demographics, driven by increased media coverage and the league’s efforts to promote the game.

Want to learn more about the business of sports? Explore our other articles on franchise valuations and arena development. Share your thoughts in the comments below!

The Gold Plan Is the NBA’s Best Fix for Tanking