NBA insider Adrian Wojnarowski tweeted that the proposal to resume the NBA season in Orlando is expected to pass with ease, with teams being left out planning to vote yes despite disagreeing with only 22 teams returning.
“Among teams left out of Orlando resumption, some members of NBA’s Board of Governors disagree with 22-team format – but do plan to cast ‘yes’ votes on call starting soon, sources tell ESPN. Proposal requires three-fourths support” Wojnarowski tweeted. “It’s expected to clear that hurdle with ease.”
It’s not surprising that many of the eight teams being left out would be against the plan, as it means their season is officially over. However, given the urgency to resume the season, teams are unlikely to vote no and likely feel pressure to publicly support the rest of the league.
Yesterday, Wojnarowski declared ‘The NBA’s back’ while outlining the 22-team plan that is widely expected to be ratified today. Along with the 16 teams currently in playoff positions, the New Orleans Pelicans, Portland Trailblazers, Phoenix Suns, Sacramento Kings, San Antonio Spurs and Washington Wizards are slated to be invited as well. The season will begin on July 31 and will end on October 12.
Eight regular-season games will be played to give the six teams a chance to earn a spot in the playoffs. If the ninth seed finishes the regular season within four games of the eighth, a play-in tournament will begin.
“The play-in format requires a double-elimination format for the 8th seed, a single-elimination for the 9th seed, per sources,” Wojnarowski tweeted.
