Draymond Green said he supports NBA expansion “business-wise” but questioned whether it’s good for the game. The league is considering adding two teams, which would create 30 new roster spots. Seattle and Las Vegas are the frontrunners. The NBA Board of Governors is expected to vote this summer.
Green said he worries about 30 more roster spots
Draymond Green addressed the expansion discussion directly. “Don’t know if that’s great for the game. Business-wise, love it. For the game, I’m not sure it’s great,” Green said. His concern is talent dilution. “I just really worry that there’s not enough talent to add 30 more spots,” he added. Two new franchises would each carry 15-man rosters. Green’s position separates the financial benefit from the on-court product.
Seattle hasn’t had a team since 2008
The SuperSonics relocated to Oklahoma City in 2008. Seattle has been without an NBA franchise since. Senator Maria Cantwell has advocated for the team’s return. “We want our Sonics back, and we’re glad that the NBA is finally saying it’s going to start a process to consider two expansion teams,” Cantwell said. The city has maintained its basketball fan base for 17 years without a team to support.
Las Vegas and Seattle are the expected locations
Brad Townsend of the Dallas Morning News reported that Seattle and Las Vegas are the frontrunners. “It’s going to be an extra-great year for Seattle,” Townsend tweeted. Las Vegas already hosts the NHL’s Golden Knights and the NFL’s Raiders. The city has demonstrated it can support major professional sports. A summer vote by the Board of Governors is anticipated.
Simmons questioned Silver’s handling of league issues
Bill Simmons recently questioned whether Adam Silver is addressing the NBA’s core problems, including player injuries and tanking. Green’s comments add another layer to the conversation about league direction. Expansion would grow the NBA’s footprint and revenue. Whether it would strengthen or weaken the on-court product is the debate Green introduced.