While some people may believe that the NBA playoffs are long and overdrawn, I would argue that the structure of the NBA playoffs is essential to keep fans engaged and happy.
No basketball fan wants the season to end, unless their teams are last in the standings.
The time from the last second of the NBA Championship to the tipoff of the first regular season game is what feels long and overdrawn, possibly the longest stretch of time in the whole year.
The NBA is actually looking out for its fans by providing them with a potential 28 extra games for their team, if they make it to the playoffs.
Having half of the teams in the league start in the playoffs means more fans will be reached. Some of those fans might stop watching once their team is out, but dedicated basketball fans will watch through the championship.
Plus, with seven-game series, people can’t complain when a team is knocked out since there is plenty of opportunity to leave it all on the court.
The NBA playoffs provide the best opportunity for post-season amazement to happen, while keeping the players and the fans happy.
Reach Nicole at nicole.klauss@asu.edu
