Play-In Tournament Made Permanent
The Rule Change
After a successful trial in the bubble, the NBA made the play-in tournament a permanent fixture. The 7th through 10th seeds in each conference compete in a mini-tournament for the final two playoff spots, with the 7th and 8th seeds getting two chances to advance.
Statistical Impact
Dramatically reduced late-season tanking by keeping more teams in playoff contention deep into the regular season. The play-in also created compelling television events and new revenue opportunities. Critics argued it devalued the regular season for higher-seeded teams, but fan and media engagement increased.
3-Year Average: Before vs. After
| Stat | Before | After | Change |
|---|---|---|---|
| PPG | 109.8 | 112.5 | +2.7 |
| Pace | 99.2 | 98.8 | -0.4 |
| 3PA | 31.7 | 34.7 | +3.0 |
| FTA | 22.6 | 22.4 | -0.2 |
| FG% | 46.0 | 46.7 | +0.7 |
Non-Basketball Move Foul Rule
The Rule Change
The NBA changed rules around 'non-basketball moves' — specifically targeting players who jumped sideways or backwards into defenders to draw fouls. These plays would no longer be rewarded with free throws.
Statistical Impact
Directly targeted the Harden-style of foul-drawing. Free throw attempts per game dropped and offensive players were forced to attack more naturally. Three-point attempts continued to rise as the alternative to free-throw hunting.
3-Year Average: Before vs. After
| Stat | Before | After | Change |
|---|---|---|---|
| PPG | 109.8 | 112.5 | +2.7 |
| Pace | 99.2 | 98.8 | -0.4 |
| 3PA | 31.7 | 34.7 | +3.0 |
| FTA | 22.6 | 22.4 | -0.2 |
| FG% | 46.0 | 46.7 | +0.7 |