The NBA Draft Lottery uses a reformed system designed to discourage tanking while giving struggling teams a chance at top talent. Here's how the odds break down:

The Three Worst Teams (14% Each)

• Rockets, Pistons, and Magic have equal 14% chances at the #1 pick
• 12-14% chances for picks 2-4
• Worst team can drop no lower than 5th
• Second-worst no lower than 6th
• Third-worst no lower than 7th

Middle Lottery Teams

• Oklahoma City Thunder and Cleveland Cavaliers (tied 4th-5th)
• Minnesota Timberwolves (6th)
• Toronto Raptors (7th)
• Raptors likely to land 8th pick based on odds

Play-In Tournament Teams

• Indiana Pacers (93% chance at 13th pick)
• Golden State Warriors (98% chance at 14th pick)
• San Antonio Spurs (85% chance at 12th pick)
• Charlotte Hornets (77.6% chance at 11th pick)

The current system, implemented a few years ago, proved successful when the Pelicans won the Zion Williamson sweepstakes despite not having the worst record. This encourages teams to remain competitive while still providing hope for struggling franchises.

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