In-Season Tournament (NBA Cup)
The Rule Change
The NBA introduced an in-season tournament (branded as the NBA Cup) with group play, single-elimination rounds, and a championship game. The tournament used special courts and offered prize money.
Statistical Impact
No direct statistical impact on season averages, but increased competitive intensity in early-season games. The structural innovation was the most significant change to the regular season format since the play-in tournament.
3-Year Average: Before vs. After
| Stat | Before | After | Change |
|---|---|---|---|
| PPG | 111.5 | 114.2 | +2.7 |
| Pace | 99.2 | 98.8 | -0.4 |
| 3PA | 34.6 | 35.6 | +1.0 |
| FTA | 22.3 | 22.3 | +0.0 |
| FG% | 46.2 | 47.2 | +1.0 |
Expanded Coach's Challenge Rules
The Rule Change
The NBA expanded the coach's challenge system to allow teams to challenge more types of calls, including out-of-bounds violations and goaltending calls throughout the game. Teams now received an additional challenge if their first challenge was successful, allowing for up to two challenges in a game.
Statistical Impact
Increased the strategic dimension of challenges and improved overall officiating accuracy. Coaches became more willing to use challenges on borderline calls knowing they could earn a second one. The expansion reflected the league's growing confidence in replay technology as a net positive for the game.
3-Year Average: Before vs. After
| Stat | Before | After | Change |
|---|---|---|---|
| PPG | 111.5 | 114.2 | +2.7 |
| Pace | 99.2 | 98.8 | -0.4 |
| 3PA | 34.6 | 35.6 | +1.0 |
| FTA | 22.3 | 22.3 | +0.0 |
| FG% | 46.2 | 47.2 | +1.0 |