Who is NBA tanking good for? Lakers, 76ers among playoff hopefuls with easiest matchups down the stretch

February 20, 2026 - 01:12

As the NBA regular season enters its final frantic weeks, the playoff picture is coming into sharp focus. For teams jockeying for position, the schedule can be a brutal gauntlet. However, a distinct advantage awaits several contenders: a series of matchups against teams that have effectively embraced losing to improve their draft lottery odds, a strategy commonly known as "tanking."

This late-season dynamic creates a clear pathway for squads like the Los Angeles Lakers and Philadelphia 76ers to solidify their standing. Facing opponents with little to play for beyond evaluation and development often translates to less resistance on the court. These games provide a crucial opportunity to bank wins, fine-tune rotations, and build momentum without the intense pressure of a must-win contest against a fellow playoff fighter.

For the Lakers, every win is precious as they seek to avoid the play-in tournament altogether. A softer schedule allows them to manage the workloads of LeBron James and Anthony Davis more carefully. Similarly, the 76ers, navigating Joel Embiid's return, can use these games to reintegrate their MVP and build chemistry in a lower-stakes environment.

While critics argue that widespread tanking undermines competitive integrity, its reality is a calculated part of the league's ecosystem. For the franchises in the lottery hunt, losing now is an investment in future talent. For those in the playoff chase, it's a chance to catch their breath and secure vital victories before the postseason crucible begins. The final weeks will thus feature a stark contrast in motivations, with some teams playing for tomorrow while others seize the opportunity to win today.