The National Basketball Association has unveiled a major draft reform proposal known as the “3-2-1 lottery,” presenting it to all 30 general managers.
The plan would expand the lottery from 14 to 16 teams and introduce a system that penalizes the league’s worst records.
An owners’ vote is set for May 28, with implementation targeted for the 2027 draft.
The proposal has received broad backing after weeks of discussions among team executives, the competition committee, and the board of governors.
While some minor details may still be adjusted, the overall structure is largely agreed upon.
Under the format, teams ranked fourth through 10th would each receive three lottery balls, while the three worst teams would receive two each but be guaranteed no worse than the 12th pick.
Other lottery teams could fall as far as 16th, and play-in teams would also be included with varying odds.
Additional rules would prevent teams from winning the No. 1 pick in consecutive years, restrict three straight top-five selections, and remove pick protections in the 12–15 range.
The system would run through the 2029 draft, aligning with the current collective bargaining agreement.
NBA Presents ‘3-2-1 Lottery’ Anti-Tanking Reform To GMs; Owners Vote May 28 https://t.co/Y64GoUdj70
— RealGM (@RealGM) April 28, 2026