Amy:
Hey, it's Amy and Scott from the Last Night's Game podcast, and we’re breaking down the NBA Play-In Tournament — which starts April 15. I know nothing about it, so Scott's here to fill us in on what the heck it is.
Scott:
That’s why I’m here. The Play-In Tournament started in 2020 during COVID as a way to add more games (and more viewers). It was supposed to be a one-time thing… but it worked, so they kept it.
LeBron James? Not a fan. He said the person who came up with it should be fired.
Here’s how it works: The 7th through 10th seeds in each conference (East and West) play in a mini tournament. Two teams from each side make it through to become the 7th and 8th seeds in the actual NBA Playoffs.
Amy:
So just to clarify: Two conferences, four teams each in the Play-In, and two winners from each side move on to the big dance — aka the NBA Playoffs. Got it.
But why exactly does LeBron hate it?
Scott:
He doesn’t want to play extra games. Not this year — he’s not in it — but in general, superstars don’t love more games tacked on.
Amy:
But couldn’t you argue that this gives some players — like LeBron — a second chance to make the playoffs?
Scott:
Exactly. It keeps things interesting.
Amy:
Okay, so the Play-In starts April 15, and the Playoffs kick off April 19. Who’s the team to watch?
Scott:
The Oklahoma City Thunder. They’re the number one seed in the West and have dominated all season. They're young, exciting, and they’ve got something to prove.
Amy:
Perfect. Basketball fans, and even the casual ones like me, you now have everything you need. The Play-In Tournament starts April 15, the Playoffs start April 19
