Sports2/9/2026β€’ESPN

What this NBA trade deadline revealed: Teams are finding new ways to tank

What this NBA trade deadline revealed: Teams are finding new ways to tank

The NBA trade deadline has unveiled a new trend among teams - strategic tanking. Rather than outright losing games, teams are finding innovative ways to position themselves for a better draft position. This includes trading away valuable players for future draft picks or young prospects with potential. The article highlights that this approach, while frustrating to some league insiders, has become a common strategy as teams prioritize long-term success over immediate competitiveness. By accumulating assets and positioning themselves for high draft picks, these teams are hoping to build a stronger foundation for the future, even if it means sacrificing short-term performance on the court. The trade deadline has served as a catalyst for this evolution in team-building tactics, as clubs seek to gain a competitive edge through shrewd roster management and strategic decision-making. While the approach may be divisive, it underscores the ongoing pursuit of sustained success in the NBA.

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