Despite the NBA’s best attempts to fight against the notorious trend of tanking, it remains prevalent across the league. This year, several teams appear even more committed to securing the top draft pick, reminiscent of the early days of the Process Sixers. The flattening of lottery odds in 2019 aimed to curb this practice, but the allure of a high draft pick is still a powerful motivator.

**Key Points: **

• Recent Examples of Tanking: The Spurs effectively transformed their franchise by nailing three successive drafts featuring top picks like Victor Wembanyama.
• The Reality of Lottery Odds: Even teams with the worst records might not secure the top pick, as seen with last year’s surprising outcomes.
• Reigniting Competition: Many teams are currently experiencing injury crises or are unable to compete for playoff spots, leading them to consider tanking as a viable strategy.

Expect continuing analysis of the teams engaged in this tanking race, as they attempt to maximize their chances for a brighter future.